Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure in MAPHISA
Schoolchildren have been challenged to draw inspiration from President Mnangagwa’s academic journey of resilience, discipline and determination.
Speaking at the Children’s Party held at Mahetshe Primary School yesterday, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Professor Torerayi Moyo said the President’s path to prosperity was shaped by hard work, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to learning.
“Despite facing adversity during the liberation struggle, President Mnangagwa remained committed to his education, using incarceration as an opportunity for personal development,” Prof Moyo said.
He noted that during his 10‑year prison term, the President began his legal studies at Khami Maximum Security Prison between 1965 and 1975, before completing his law degree at the University of Zambia following his release and deportation.
“His Excellency’s educational journey speaks powerfully of resilience, determination and an unshakable belief in the transformative power of education, even in the most challenging circumstances,” said Prof Moyo.
“To you, the child delegates gathered here today, it is a clear reminder that no situation is insurmountable when you remain focused on your goals.”
He added that the President’s pursuit of education while in jail reflected a leader who values learning and self‑improvement—qualities schoolchildren should strive to emulate.
“As you celebrate together at this Children’s Party, may you be inspired to believe that your future is bright and full of possibilities,” Prof Moyo said.
Earlier, President Mnangagwa commissioned a computer laboratory at Mahetshe Primary School and donated laptops and Starlink gadgets to the school and other Government institutions.
Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the gesture was part of efforts to bridge the urban‑rural digital divide. “We are happy with the President’s policies of ensuring data connectivity across all schools in Zimbabwe,” she said.
“As the country moves towards a digitised economy, this process must begin at infant level, under the mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.”
The President also planted a Natal Mahogany (Umthunzini) tree at the school’s Memorial Tree Park in honour of the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, whom he described as a towering son of the soil deeply rooted in the liberation struggle.
First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa planted a commemorative tree in honour of Mama MaFuyane, while former ZIPRA commander Cde Moffat Hadebe joined the ceremony, adding emotional depth to the occasion.
President Mnangagwa later toured the Jason “Ziyaphapha” Moyo Museum, located near the park, further anchoring the commemorations in the country’s liberation history. In a symbolic gesture of continuity, the school’s head boy and head girl also planted trees.
The event took on a deeply personal tone when learners recited a poem recounting the President’s ancestral history, tracing his grandfather Kushanduka, later named Mubengo, who rose to become a skilled warrior under the Ndebele State and deputised General Mtshane Khumalo during the Anglo‑Ndebele War.
Clearly moved by the performance, the President donated a bus to the school to improve access to education in the rural community.
Forestry Commission information and communications manager Ms Violet Makoto said the memorial park would play a key role in preserving national history through environmental conservation.
“Integrating tree planting into Independence celebrations creates a lasting legacy while promoting stewardship for future generations,” she said, noting that Zimbabwe established its first National Tree Planting Day in 1980, the same year independence was attained.
The President also commissioned the Mahetshe Primary School Business Unit, a one‑hectare agriculture project featuring drip irrigation, solar‑powered boreholes, water tanks and fishponds. Implemented in partnership with ZINWA, ARDA, AFC and the Agricultural Marketing Authority, the project seeks to enhance rural livelihoods and practical learning.
To support the initiative, the President donated US$1 000, reinforcing Government’s commitment to rural development and sustainable community growth.
The day’s events—blending history, culture, environmental stewardship and investment in education—underscored the enduring significance of Zimbabwe’s Independence and the shared responsibility of safeguarding its legacy.
Child President Lionel Mazarire commended President Mnangagwa for hosting and engaging with children from across the country.
