Online Reporter
Innocent Mujeri
EVERY year on Heroes Day, Zimbabwe pauses to reflect on the immense sacrifices made by the men and women who fought for the country’s liberation.
This sacred commemoration is not merely a look back at history but a powerful reaffirmation of the values that continue to guide the nation forward. Under the steadfast leadership of Zanu-PF and the visionary governance of President Mnangagwa, Heroes Day 2025 stands as a testament to Zimbabwe’s enduring spirit, national unity, and the unwavering commitment to preserving the gains of independence while building a prosperous future for all.
The story of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle is one of extraordinary courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. The heroes and heroines we honour today laid down their lives so that future generations could live in a free and sovereign nation.
Their blood, sweat, and tears watered the tree of independence, and today, we enjoy its fruits because of their sacrifice. The Second Republic, under President Mnangagwa, has remained true to this legacy by ensuring that the ideals of the liberation struggle remain at the heart of national development.
Unlike other nations where the significance of liberation history fades with time, Zimbabwe has maintained a deep reverence for its past while using it as a foundation for progress. Government’s commitment to preserving national heritage through monuments, education, and annual commemorations ensures that the younger generation understands and appreciates the price of freedom. This is not just about remembering history — it is about drawing inspiration from it to tackle today’s challenges with the same revolutionary zeal.
Zanu-PF, as the Party that led the liberation struggle, has consistently demonstrated its role as the custodian of Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and development. The Party’s policies, from land reform to economic empowerment, have been designed to fulfil the aspirations of those who fought for independence.
The Land Reform Programme, though initially met with resistance, has empowered thousands of previously marginalised Zimbabweans, ensuring that the land remains in the hands of its rightful owners. This was not just an economic policy but a moral imperative — one that honoured the sacrifices of the liberation heroes who fought against colonial dispossession.
Today, under the Second Republic, Zanu-PF continues to champion policies that uplift ordinary citizens. The National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) is a clear blueprint for sustainable growth, focusing on infrastructure development, industrialisation, and modernisation. Projects such as the Beitbridge-Chirundu Highway, the expansion of Hwange Thermal Power Station, and the construction of dams across the country are tangible proof that the government is delivering on its promises. Heroes Day reminds us that the struggle was not just for political freedom but for economic emancipation — a goal that remains at the forefront of Zanu-PF’s agenda.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Heroes Day is its power to unite Zimbabweans across political, ethnic, and generational divides. While the country has had its share of political differences, the commemoration of national heroes serves as a unifying force, reminding citizens of the shared history that binds them together. Government has made conscious efforts to promote inclusivity, ensuring that heroes from all regions and backgrounds are recognised for their contributions.
President Mnangagwa’s mantra, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/ ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo” (A country is built by its own people), resonates deeply on this day. It calls upon every Zimbabwean, regardless of political affiliation, to contribute to nation-building.
The Heroes Day celebrations are not just a Zanu-PF event but a national occasion that invites all citizens to reflect on their role in shaping Zimbabwe’s future. Government’s emphasis on dialogue, peace, and reconciliation underscores its commitment to maintaining stability while fostering development.
The true honour we can bestow upon our heroes is to ensure that their dreams of a prosperous Zimbabwe are realised. Despite facing illegal sanctions and global economic challenges, the country has shown remarkable resilience.
The introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, the growth in agricultural production, and the revitalisation of mining and manufacturing sectors are indicators of an economy on the rebound.
Heroes Day 2025 comes at a time when Zimbabwe is making significant strides in infrastructure, energy, and food security. The Government’s focus on value-addition and beneficiation aligns with the vision of an empowered, self-sufficient nation — one that does not merely export raw materials but processes them into finished goods. This economic model is what the liberation fighters envisioned: a Zimbabwe that controls its resources and uses them for the benefit of its people.
As we celebrate Heroes Day, we must also look ahead with optimism. The Second Republic has laid a strong foundation for Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy. The digital economy, innovation hubs, and youth empowerment programmes are ensuring that the next generation has the tools to drive progress.
The heroes we honour today did not fight for a stagnant nation but for a dynamic, thriving Zimbabwe. Under Zanu-PF’s leadership, the country is steadily moving towards that reality. The challenges that remain are not insurmountable — they are stepping stones to greater achievements.
Heroes Day is more than a public holiday; it is a reaffirmation of Zimbabwe’s identity, resilience, and collective destiny. Government, under Zanu-PF, has shown unwavering dedication to preserving the legacy of the liberation struggle while steering the nation towards modernisation and prosperity.
Bongani Ndlovu