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Bulawayo Bureau
Zimbabwe should document its history for posterity, as a nation without roots is a failed one, Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko has said.
He said this at commemorations of the death of the Ndebele state’s Founding King, Mzilikazi kaMatshobane, at Mhlahlandlela near Bulawayo yesterday.
“It is a fact that a nation without a history is not a nation at all. At least we are fortunate as we know who our kings were, which is why we come here every year to remember the passing on of our founding King.
“As Zimbabwe, we go to the National Heroes’ Acre every year to remember our heroes and heroines who died liberating this country, but as a region, it is no secret that we come here also to remember King Mzilikazi; this is our own version of the National Shrine.
“However, more can still be done. Yes, we talk of the Hwange Battle or the Chinhoyi Battle, but it is time we documented the Gadade, Lalaphansi and Pupu battles. Our children should take it upon themselves to document such key battles because these are also part of our history, a history which our children should know and appreciate.”
VP Mphoko added: “King Mzilikazi was not a destroyer but a nation-builder. We must take these qualities and use them. We must unite, as fighting and divisions are not progressive. If there is anything dividing us, let us come together and try to resolve it. That is the quality King Mzilikazi left for us all.
“The reason we are here is because we are not doing anything illegal. Even President Mugabe is aware of this. I even informed him that I was coming here to honour my ancestors. It is unfortunate that it is my first time being part of you because I have spent a lot of years outside the country, but we are in this together.”
Chief Maduna, on behalf of traditional leaders, called on VP Mphoko to lead Matabeleland’s development. “This is the first time that we have had such a senior person to grace these commemorations. It is our hope that Cde Mphoko will take up his new God-given role to help revive the Matabeleland region, especially Bulawayo. Industries have to be reopened to give our children employment. The economy of Bulawayo has to be boosted.”
Khumalo Family Council of Elders chair Dr Bruce Khumalo said they would soon enthrone a new Ndebele King.
“While some might say we took too long, what has to be appreciated is that it has been 121 years since we had a king. So, we have to consult widely and thoroughly so that we don’t do anything wrong.”
Online Reporter