Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, Zimpapers Politics Hub
AS Zimbabweans prepare to commemorate the life and enduring legacy of Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, a revered founding nationalist and late Vice-President tomorrow, this year’s festivities will have double significance for the people of Matabeleland South Province in particular, and Zimbabwe at large.
Dr Nkomo’s home province is not only set to remember the passing of the national hero but has also been confirmed as the proud host for Zimbabwe’s main Independence Day celebrations and the Children’s Party next year, promising an extended period of national festivities and reflection in the region.
Dr Nkomo, a pivotal figure in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, was born on June 19, 1917, in the then Semukwe Reserve of Matabeleland South Province.
This charismatic nationalist, whose homestead is located in Kezi, Matobo District, also in Matabeleland South, died on July 1, 1999, at the age of 82.
While Matabeleland South is yet to choose a host district for the 2026 Independence Day celebrations and Children’s Party, a decision that will aim to leave a lasting legacy in the form of development projects, the very selection of the province underscores the nation’s commitment to its devolution policy.
This choice not only highlights a progressive step towards decentralisation, a principle fiercely championed by the late Dr Nkomo himself, but also casts a significant spotlight on the broader Matabeleland region’s profound historical importance.
It offers a timely opportunity for the nation to reflect deeply on the life and monumental works of the nationalist, who was a staunch proponent of decentralisation.
Dr Nkomo viewed this approach, now being vigorously pursued by the Second Republic under President Mnangagwa, as crucial for making people feel truly part of governance and ensuring equitable access to vital services across the country.
Indeed, the decision to hold the main Independence Day celebrations and the Children’s Party in Matabeleland South Province in 2026 perfectly aligns with Dr Nkomo’s long-held vision of devolution.
As a strong advocate for decentralisation, he believed that empowering local communities and provinces was essential for inclusive development and for fostering a sense of belonging and participation among all Zimbabweans.
This national event, therefore, serves as a tangible manifestation of his dream, bringing the spirit of national celebration and the focus of development to the grassroots, precisely as he envisioned.
As Zimbabwe prepares to mark 26 years since the passing of Dr Nkomo, there is a profound sense of celebration in knowing that his cherished aspirations for a decentralised and inclusive governance system are being actively pursued.
The Second Republic, under President Mnangagwa, has demonstrated a tangible commitment to the devolution agenda, allocating funds and implementing projects that aim to empower provinces and ensure equitable development across the nation.
This dedication to fulfilling Dr Nkomo’s vision provides a powerful testament to his enduring influence and ensures that his legacy of advocating for people-centred governance continues to shape Zimbabwe’s future.
Dr Nkomo, whose life was dedicated to the people of Zimbabwe, will always be remembered for his sacrifices and contributions for the betterment of the greater population.
The loss of such a visionary leader, unifier and father figure was huge, its gravity is greatly felt, even to this day by those with whom he shared personal relationships — his friends, family, fellow nationalists, other personal associates and even his foes.
Although departed, Dr Nkomo remains an inspiration to many, and his legacy will forever be embedded in the minds of both old and young generations whose lives he directly and indirectly impacted positively.
Therefore, it is befitting that as Matabeleland South Province prepares to host the main Independence Day celebrations and Children’s Party in 2026, the transformative developments associated with this national event should extend their impact to Kezi, Matobo District, Dr Nkomo’s ancestral home.
As we approach the 26th anniversary of his passing this July 1, there is a profound sense of pride and a double celebration for the people of Matabeleland South and Zimbabwe at large.
The Second Republic, under President Mnangagwa, is demonstrably committed to pursuing Dr Nkomo’s long-held visions, particularly that of devolution.
The selection of his home province to host the main Independence Day celebrations next year stands as a powerful testament to this commitment, signifying that Dr Nkomo’s dream of empowering local communities and ensuring equitable development for all Zimbabweans is actively being brought to fruition.
