Online Reporter
Nqobile Tshili, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has unveiled the theme for Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day celebrations as “Zim@ 45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030,” which underlines the Second Republic’s commitment to fostering inclusive national development through devolution.
This year’s commemorations will be held in Gokwe, Midlands, in line with the Government’s policy of rotating national events across the country’s provinces. Over 60 000 people are expected to attend the celebrations, which will take place on April 18 at Nembudziya Growth Point Open Ground Venue in Gokwe North.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the selected theme aligns with the Government’s far-reaching goal of attaining an upper middle-income economy by 2030 through equitable development.
“In line with the thrust of the Second Republic to hold national events rotationally across the country’s provinces, the 45th Independence anniversary celebrations will be held on April 18, 2025 at the Nembudziya Growth Point Open Ground Venue in Gokwe North.
“As per tradition, the Children’s Party will precede the main celebrations on 17th April at Nyamuroro High School, while the Independence Gala will be hosted at Nembudziya Government High School on the eve of 18th April 2025,” said Dr Muswere.
He said this year’s theme reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to empowering local communities and fostering inclusive development with preparatory works at an advanced stage.
“Running under the theme, “Zim@ 45: Devolve and Develop Together towards Vision 2030,” the celebrations are poised to attract 60 000 people drawn from all the 10 provinces of Zimbabwe.
“Preparatory works are all at an advanced stage and progressing well, with the construction of legacy projects in full swing at the main arena at Gokwe North Open Grounds; the gala site at Nembudziya Government High School; and the venue of the Children’s Party at Nyamuroro High School,” said Dr Muswere.
Highlighting the developmental impact of hosting the event, Dr Muswere revealed that Gokwe North and South districts are already benefitting from infrastructure projects initiated in preparation for the celebrations. These include the construction of key facilities at the main arena in Gokwe North Open Grounds, the gala site at Nembudziya Government High School, and the Children’s Party venue at Nyamuroro High School.
As part of efforts to enhance water security, the Government has embarked on drilling 110 boreholes across the host districts, with three strategically located at the main event venues to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water.
Dr Muswere said as part of logistical arrangements for the event, the Government has mobilised over 369 buses to transport delegates from all 10 provinces to Gokwe for the celebrations.
As is tradition, the Children’s Party, to be hosted by President Mnangagwa and the First Family, will precede the main event on April 17. A total of 3 050 child delegates are expected to participate, arriving at Nyamuroro High School on April 15 and departing on April 19.
The independence celebrations will be preceded by several key events, including the torch relay and the lighting of the Independence Flame, symbolising the nation’s resilience and unity.
Entertainment will feature prominently, with artistes from Kwekwe and Gokwe set to showcase their talent at the Uhuru Gala. — @nqotshili
