Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
RESIDENTS of Chipinge have expressed deep appreciation after the district successfully hosted the provincial Independence Day celebrations last Saturday, describing the event as both a historic honour and catalyst for local development.
The commemorations, held at Gaza Stadium and attended by Government officials, a delegation from Mozambique’s Manica Province, traditional leaders and community members, marked a significant moment for the district.
By 10am, the stadium was full, demonstrating how warmly they welcomed the decision to decentralise the commemorations.
Ms Shylet Haritonhori, of Gaza high-density suburb, who runs a kitchen at Chitima Shopping Centre, said hosting the provincial celebrations brought her brisk business, with high demand for food from visitors and locals.
“This year’s Independence Day celebrations were different from previous ones we were used to. There were so many people in and outside the stadium. Business was brisk, and by 2.30pm I had sold 200 plates of sadza, something I have not achieved even on Christmas Day. We were used to district celebrations only, but this year we were graced by high-profile guests, and we are very happy,” she said.
Mr Kudakwashe Ziyaduma said the move to decentralise national events to all corners of the country is a positive step by the Second Republic, as it fosters a spirit of unity and ensures no area is neglected.
“We are happy with what the Government is doing, decentralising national events from big cities like Mutare to smaller towns like Chipinge. People really appreciated it, as evidenced by the huge turnout.
“I could not even find a free seat. This is good because it spreads the spirit of oneness and unity among citizens. People from all corners of Manicaland have converged here,” said Mr Ziyaduma.
Community leaders said the decision to bring the celebrations to Chipinge signalled growing recognition of the district’s role in Zimbabwe’s liberation history and contribution to the economy, particularly through agriculture and timber production.
Chipinge Business Initiative chairperson, Mr James Gabaza, said businesses in food, beverages and accommodation enjoyed brisk trade as thousands descended on the town, with some outlets running out of stock.
Transport operators and vendors also had a good day, thanks to the influx of visitors to the once quiet town.
“We feel seen and valued as Chipinge. For years, provincial functions were held only in Mutare, and now Chipinge has had the chance to showcase its people, culture and potential. In terms of business, it was excellent, as thousands of people came from across the province. The crowd that gathered at Gaza Stadium was the largest we have seen in years. It was a great day for us – money circulated well.
People were spending while celebrating, and those who were not fully stocked ran out of products, particularly drinks and food. Even informal traders who set up stalls outside the stadium enjoyed good business. This event also gave Chipinge Town Council an opportunity to upgrade Gaza Stadium so it can host other high-profile gatherings, like other towns,” said Mr Gabaza.
Chief Ngungunyana said hosting the provincial event strengthened community pride and unity, adding that the recognition is testament to the Government’s acknowledgement of the role communities played in during the liberation struggle.
“We feel respected and honoured when such important events come right to us. The Government has shown that it has not forgotten the role traditional leaders played during the liberation war. National events should continue to be rotated so that every community is afforded an opportunity. Chipinge contributed a great deal to the country’s independence, and the people are happy that the provincial commemorations were brought to their doorstep,” said Chief Ngungunyana.
Chipinge District Development Coordinator, Mr William Mashava said the district showed unity of purpose in ensuring that the celebrations were a resounding success.
He said the event left lasting legacy projects, including an improved Gaza Stadium, five boreholes around the town, school business unit at Gaza Primary School and improved roads in the town.
“The people of Chipinge were very excited to host the provincial Independence Day celebrations. Preparations went very well – and we are pleased with the outcome. We collaborated with our superiors at provincial level, who guided us. Gaza Stadium was in a sorry state, but we saw marked improvements to the facility.
‘‘Five boreholes were drilled by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority in the town to improve water access. A school business unit was set up at Gaza Primary School, which will improve the school’s financial position and support its feeding programme.
‘‘The town was given a facelift through road maintenance and new road markings. All roads linking the town, such as Tanganda–Chipinge and Chipinge–Mt Selinda Border Post, were attended to. The business sector, farmers, civil servants and ordinary residents played a key role in the success of the celebrations, including providing funding,” said Mr Mashava.
