Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka
Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE Government’s decision to host the 46th Independence Day celebrations and the 2026 Children’s Party at Maphisa Open Space in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province, has been hailed as a profound honour for the late national hero and Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, affectionately known as Father Zimbabwe.
This choice of location holds particular significance, as Dr Nkomo, a pivotal figure in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, has his homestead located in Kezi, Matobo District, also within Matabeleland South.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland South, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, expressed immense gratitude and excitement over the announcement, emphasising its significance for the region and the nation.
“I’m sure everyone who comes from the region is very happy, in the sense that Maphisa, as it is in Kezi, is known to all Zimbabweans as the home of Father Zimbabwe,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He highlighted the poignant timing of the announcement, coming just after the commemoration of Dr Nkomo’s passing.
“And actually, after celebrating his passing yesterday (Tuesday), it is good news that on the same day he passed away, he is being honoured by Cabinet’s decision that we host the next Independence Day and Children’s Party Celebrations. To us, as people from Matabeleland South province, it is a great honour.”
Minister Nguluvhe further elaborated that the selection of Maphisa aligns with President Mnangagwa’s philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind,” serving as a policy guide for the Second Republic’s inclusive development agenda and promising significant development for the province.
“But you must also appreciate that these Independence Day Celebrations are in line with President Mnangagwa’s philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind.’ It brings a lot of development projects.
“And to us, it’s a chance to improve and develop Matabeleland South. It was also a deliberate move that we recommended Maphisa because it is going to benefit the entire province,” Cde Nguluvhe explained.
Minister Nguluvhe pointed out specific infrastructure benefits, particularly regarding road networks.
“Imagine a person coming from Beitbridge or Insiza wanting to go to Plumtree, they will no longer go via Bulawayo but will just turn from Gwanda to Maphisa. So that, on its own, is something for our benefit.
“Imagine we will also take care of Brunapeng. So, people from Plumtree coming to Kezi will also be helped. Going to Mphoengs, that area’s road will also be taken care of,” he said.
Beyond roads, Minister Nguluvhe underscored the critical need for improved communication infrastructure.
“In terms of even networking, we will make sure that we implore the Government to put in mobile network boosters. As we are aware, it is very difficult to communicate with people in Mphoengs, even in Plumtree.”
He emphasised that the hosting of these national events in Maphisa is anticipated to bring substantial economic and social development, marking a new chapter for Matabeleland South province.
“So, to us, as people from Matabeleland South, I think it’s a bonus. We are talking about infrastructure development. We are talking about bringing development to people.
“And this is one of the major projects which is going to bring a lot of development to Matabeleland South,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
Speaking after Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the decision to host the 46th Independence Day celebrations and the 2026 Children’s Party at Maphisa Open Space in Matobo District is part of the Government’s commitment to honouring the country’s history while fostering community development.
“Cabinet noted and approved the update on the status of Independence Day commemorations and Children’s Party legacy projects across provinces, as well as the proposed venue for the 46th Independence Day and 2026 Children’s Party,” he said.
“Regarding the 46th Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations, the Cabinet has approved Maphisa Open Space in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province, to host the event.”
Dr Muswere said the strategic selection leverages Maphisa’s profound historical significance and multifaceted benefits.
“Notably, the event will catalyse infrastructure development, including the rehabilitation of key roads such as the Gwanda-Maphisa and Bulawayo-Maphisa roads. The Bulawayo-Maphisa Road will be extended to Mphoengs on the border with Botswana in order to ensure regional connectivity, fostering economic growth and promoting social cohesion,” he said.
