Online Reporter
Peter Matika [email protected]
A GROUP of Bulawayo youths has appealed to Government to declare July 1 a national public holiday in honour of the late nationalist and former Vice-President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, citing his immense contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, nation-building and reconciliation.
Dr Nkomo, affectionately known as Father Zimbabwe, died on July 1, 1999.
The proposal, spearheaded by youth advocate and entrepreneur Mr Effort Gumbi, is seeking endorsement from liberation war leaders and other key stakeholders before it is submitted through the appropriate Government channels for consideration by President Mnangagwa.
In their appeal, the youths said setting aside July 1 as a public holiday would provide enduring national recognition of Dr Nkomo’s leadership, commitment to independence and his role in fostering unity after Zimbabwe attained freedom.
“We respectfully write to seek your support and endorsement of a proposal requesting that July 1, the anniversary of the passing of Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, be declared a National Public Holiday in Zimbabwe,” said Mr Gumbi.
He said such recognition would help preserve the country’s liberation history while inspiring younger generations to appreciate the sacrifices made by the country’s liberation heroes and heroines.
Mr Gumbi said the commemorative day would also strengthen patriotism, national unity, peace, reconciliation and servant leadership, while giving Zimbabweans an annual opportunity to reflect on the values that shaped the country’s independence.
“Our proposal acknowledges existing national commemorations honouring the liberation struggle. Dr Nkomo’s exceptional contribution to Zimbabwe’s independence and post-independence reconciliation warrants dedicated national recognition,” he said.
Mr Gumbi appealed to liberation war leaders and other stakeholders to endorse the initiative and recommend it through the relevant party and Government structures.
“We firmly believe that recognising leaders who dedicated their lives to Zimbabwe strengthens our national identity and reinforces the values of unity, peace and patriotism that continue to guide our country,” he said.
Dr Nkomo was one of the principal architects of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, co-founding the nationalist movement and later serving as Vice-President following the signing of the Unity Accord on December 22, 1987 between PF-Zapu and Zanu (PF)
