dyton mupawaenda
Gibson Mhaka-Zimpapers Politics Hub
SOUTH Africa is often referred to as the “Rainbow Nation” due to its diverse cultural and ethnic makeup.
The late Archbishop Desmond Tutu coined the term during the country’s transition from apartheid to democracy in the early 1990s. At that time, South Africa was deeply divided, with a history of racial segregation and injustice.
The “Rainbow Nation” label was intended to emphasise the hope and potential for unity, reconciliation and harmony among the different races and cultures in the country.
The term encapsulates the harmonious coexistence and cooperation among the nation’s ethnically and culturally diverse people. South Africa’s rich diversity sets it apart as a country with a deep representation of various cultures within its borders.
Back home, as Zimbabwe is set to celebrate its 45th independence anniversary at Nembudziya Growth Point in Gokwe North, a distinct feature deserves highlighting.
While Gokwe, a significant agricultural centre in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province, is known for its cotton production, it is also remarkable for its vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.
Originally the ancestral home of the Shangwe people, the district has evolved into a rich tapestry of Shona, Tonga and Ndebele communities.
This unique blend of cultures creates a distinct and colourful identity, making Gokwe a true “Rainbow District” within Zimbabwe.
This cultural fusion contributes significantly to the region’s character, showcasing how diverse communities can coexist and enrich the nation’s heritage.
The district embodies the values of peace, unity and harmony that were central to the liberation struggle and remain foundational to the nation’s identity.
This coexistence of diverse cultures in Gokwe serves as a powerful reminder of the ideals for which Zimbabweans fought and continue to strive as they build a united and prosperous nation.
Crucially, the unity, peace and coexistence witnessed in Gokwe today stand in stark contrast to the divisions fostered during the colonial era.
Before independence, different ethnic groups, such as the Shona and Ndebele, were often manipulated and pitted against each other by colonial forces, leading to conflict and mistrust.
The unity displayed in Gokwe represents a hard-won victory over those divisive tactics, demonstrating the power of post-independence Zimbabwe in fostering a society where diverse communities can live together harmoniously.
This spirit of togetherness is a testament to the nation’s progress and a vital element in building a strong and unified Zimbabwe.
Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe is on the right track in fulfilling the values and ethos of the liberation struggle that resulted in the attainment of independence in 1980.
This year’s commemorations will be held under the theme “Devolve, develop, together towards Vision 2030,” and in line with the Second Republic of leaving no place and no one behind.
The theme emphasises the importance of “developing together,” which is precisely what Gokwe exemplifies through its harmonious integration of diverse communities.
This district serves as a living testament to the possibility of national unity and collaborative development, mirroring the aspirations outlined in Vision 2030.
Furthermore, the district’s celebration of independence proves that this theme is not just words but a living reality.
The concept of devolution and decentralisation, which is also central to the independence theme, reinforces the unity and peace enjoyed in Gokwe.
By empowering local communities and giving them greater control over their development, devolution fosters a sense of ownership and reduces the potential for conflict.
When communities feel heard and included in decision-making processes, as exemplified by Gokwe, it strengthens social cohesion and promotes lasting peace.
Hosting the independence celebrations in Gokwe signifies a commitment to these principles, showing the nation that devolution and decentralisation are not just political concepts but practical tools for building a more united and prosperous Zimbabwe.
This also helps to reduce feelings of marginalisation, which can be a source of conflict. In the context of Gokwe, hosting the 45th independence celebration reinforces this sense of inclusion.
Through bringing the nation’s focus to this diverse district, the Government acknowledges Gokwe’s unique contribution to Zimbabwe’s cultural tapestry and its commitment to peaceful coexistence.
This act of recognition strengthens the existing tranquillity within Gokwe, as it validates the district’s model of unity and reinforces the message that all regions are integral to the nation’s identity and progress.
Emphasising the need to preserve unity and peace, the core ethos of the liberation struggle, still evident in Gokwe District’s unique coexistence of the ethnic groups, political analyst Godwine Mureriwa stated that the celebrations will solidify national peace and unity as envisaged by Vision 2030.
“The 45th Independence commemorations should solidify national peace, unity the collective aspirations of Zimbabweans as envisioned by Vision 2030.
“The politics of hate, divisions and persecution should be shunned. Our globally cherished education and hard work ethic should spur economic growth in all sectors,” he said.
“This is the time to benefit from the fast-emerging multi-polar world through adding value to our vast minerals through partnerships with local and international investors.
“The livelihoods should improve tremendously to vindicate efforts towards the 2030 Vision.”
Johan Galtung, the guru of peace-building, defines peace as the cessation of war, a state of quietness. This type of ‘peace’ may in itself be peace productive; it produces a common basis, a feeling of communal purpose that may pave the ground for deeper ties.
In Gokwe, this definition of peace is vividly realised. The peaceful coexistence of the diverse ethnic groups demonstrates a “cessation of war” in the sense of overcoming the divisions that colonial forces once exploited.
This “state of quietness,” achieved through the sacrifices and unity forged during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, has created a “common basis” and “feeling of communality” that allows these diverse groups to thrive together. The peace enjoyed in Gokwe, therefore, serves as a tangible example of how the liberation struggle’s ideals have translated into a lasting and productive peace within the nation.
The narrative of Zimbabwe’s independence is not merely a recollection of a historic victory; it is a living testament to the spirit of a people who fought valiantly for the right to shape their destiny.
This spirit of unity, forged in the crucible of the liberation struggle, underscores the enduring importance of peace—a peace that is further exemplified by the harmonious coexistence of diverse tribes within Zimbabwe today.
The peaceful integration of the communities in Gokwe for instance, demonstrates that the values of tolerance and mutual respect for which our nation fought continue to thrive.
This living testimony to peaceful ethnic coexistence is a powerful reminder that the hard-won independence is not just a historical achievement but a continuous practice essential for building a prosperous and united future for all Zimbabweans.
As we reflect on 45 years of independence, let the spirit of Chimurenga, the revolutionary struggle, echo once again.
Let it continue to inspire future generations to uphold the values of freedom and unity as exemplified in Gokwe.
Online Reporter