Online Reporter
Richard Muponde, Zimpapers Politics Hub
PREPARATIONS for this year’s Heroes Day commemorations are at an advanced stage, with the commemorations going to follow the traditional format, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe has said.
Zimbabwe is set to commemorate Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day on August 11 and 12, respectively.
Minister Kazembe confirmed that preparations were progressing smoothly, with key stakeholders already mobilised.
“Preparations are on course…the programme will mostly follow the same pattern as last year,” Minister Kazembe said.
“Those who are supposed to attend, including widows, families of fallen heroes, and other dignitaries, have already been invited. An inter-ministerial task force is meeting regularly to ensure everything is in place.
”The main commemorative event will be at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, while all 10 provinces will simultaneously host provincial events.
“We are ready to host the Heroes Day celebrations. The National Heroes Acre will be the main event, but similar activities will take place throughout the provinces.”
Minister Kazembe stressed the importance of the commemorations in preserving the legacy of the liberation struggle and uniting the nation under shared historical values.
“These celebrations remind us that we are where we are because of the sacrifices of our comrades,” he said.
“Some died, some survived with permanent injuries, and we owe them our freedom, peace, and sovereignty. Independence did not come on a silver platter; it was paid for in blood.”
He also emphasised the unifying power of national remembrance, saying it should serve as a rallying point for development and nation-building.
“Despite our differences, we are all Zimbabweans. We share a common history of the liberation struggle. Our heroes were united in purpose, and that is why they won. We must now draw inspiration from their unity and channel it towards achieving economic independence,” he said.
Minister Kazembe tied the commemorations to President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by the end of the decade.
“The President’s Vision 2030 is about securing economic independence. Political freedom was just the beginning, now we must unite, focus, and work together to transform our economy.”
Last year’s Heroes Day commemorations included the conferment of posthumous and living honours to individuals who have significantly contributed to Zimbabwe’s liberation and development.
Though the minister did not divulge specific awardees, he confirmed that deserving individuals will be recognised by the President this year.
Heroes Day, commemorated annually in Zimbabwe, honours the gallant sons and daughters of the soil who fought in the country’s liberation war.
The Defence Forces Day, which follows the next day, celebrates the contributions of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces in safeguarding national sovereignty and supporting developmental initiatives.
Both days are traditionally marked with parades, speeches, cultural displays, and entertainment, drawing thousands of Zimbabweans from all walks of life.
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