Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve [email protected]
THE Government has accelerated the repatriation of fallen liberation war heroes whose remains are still in Zambia and other neighbouring countries, with an interministerial subcommittee now fully operationalised to ensure the exercise is conducted with dignity and honour.
The development was revealed by Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs Minister, Senator Monica Mavhunga, who said Cabinet had approved a comprehensive memorialisation framework following a regional tour by Vice President Kembo Mohadi.
“Government remains firmly committed to the memorialisation of our liberation war legacy through ensuring that those who paid the ultimate sacrifice are accorded the honour and recognition they deserve,” said Minister Mavhunga.
She said Cabinet had approved the establishment of an interministerial committee and a Liberation Heritage Fund, led by the Office of the President and Cabinet. An implementation meeting was convened on 1 December 2025 to operationalise the National Coordination Framework.
The Liberation Heritage Fund will serve as the main financing mechanism for memorialisation efforts both locally and regionally. The committee is responsible for developing annual work plans and budgets, as well as mobilising support from development partners.
Minister Mavhunga said a dedicated subcommittee, which she chairs, will spearhead forensic research and documentation of fallen fighters’ remains. “We are guaranteed scientific accuracy, historical integrity and dignity throughout all memorialisation processes,” she said.
On the diplomatic front, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade is strengthening bilateral cooperation with Zambia and other countries to facilitate the lawful verification and return of remains in compliance with international protocols.
“The repatriation of our fallen heroes from Zambia and other countries is a clear Government priority, and we are moving with urgency and resolve,” said Minister Mavhunga.
Meanwhile, the Minister gave an update on the ongoing vetting of ex-detainees, war collaborators, war veterans and non-combatant cadres.
Following vetting programmes conducted in 1997, 2022 and 2024, the ministry continues to receive applications from individuals not previously captured.
Preliminary reports indicate a considerable number of war collaborators still require formal vetting, with systematic compilation underway at district level, including Binga.
