Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
Excitement, joy and the spirit of belonging has gripped the people of Hwedza district in particular, and the Mashonaland East province in general, ahead of the Heroes and Defence Forces gala to be held at Hwedza centre tomorrow.
It is now the norm for provinces to rotate in hosting this auspicious event, where the nation converges to enjoy the music and entertainment from their local artistes, in remembrance of the sacrifices made by heroes to free the people of Zimbabwe from colonial bondage.
This event is now the talk of town, young and old in Hwedza district, as they eagerly await to be mesmerised by local artistes.
“I am a war veteran based in Hwedza. I am so excited about the upcoming gala and this should be commended. The event has also brought huge development in our district. But what is important is that we are the district that will host the national gala.
“We thank authorities for this. We are so eager to see our artists and enjoy the event,” said Cde Evans Matsveru from Hwedza.
A youth, Miss Charlotte Chigwedere who could not contain her excitement, said the gala will also be a platform to educate the youth on how Zimbabwe gained its independence.
“We are excited about this day. Yes, we are alive to the fact that a lot of blood was shed and lives lost for us to be free from colonial rule, and we are grateful to those who sacrificed their all to bring us freedom. If it was not for their sacrifice, we could have not gained this freedom to do galas.”
Hwedza Rural District Council chairperson, Mrs Sheila Mugabe, thanked President ED Mnangagwa for affording the district an opportunity to host the auspicious occasion in remembrance of fallen and surviving heroes and heroines.
“Hwedza was alive during the liberation struggle and now Hwedza is alive to development. The event on August 12 is bringing good vibes to us all, to celebrate our gallant sons and daughters and the platform will benefit youths in particular, as campaigns against drug and substance abuse will also be held.
“This event has also brought economic advantages to our business community. We are excited as Hwedza and we thank authorities for this.”
In an interview in Hwedza recently, Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, who was visiting the venue, expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness. He said the province was excited withthe upcoming event and invited people from across the country to come to Hwedza for the event.
“As Mashonaland East Province in general, and Hwedza district in particular, the host of this year’s national gala to celebrate the exploits of our heroes, living and departed, we are inviting Zimbabweans from all the corners of the nation and beyond to come and join us for the celebrations as we remember the gallant and heroic efforts of those who participated in the liberation struggle to liberate us from colonial bondage.”
