Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka
Zimpapers Politics Hub
TRADITIONAL leaders in Matabeleland South Province have hailed the decision to host this year’s 46th Independence Day national celebrations in Matobo District, describing the move as a historic recognition of the province’s rich heritage and untapped potential.
Zimbabwe is set to commemorate its 46th Independence anniversary on Saturday at Maphisa Growth Point under the theme “Zim@46 – Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030.”
The theme dovetails with the Government’s broader national development agenda, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy by 2030 through inclusive growth, infrastructure development and social cohesion.
The event is expected to draw about 50 000 people from across the country’s 10 provinces.
Speaking ahead of the festivities, Chief Mathe, whose jurisdiction covers parts of Matobo and Umzingwane districts, said the province was buzzing with excitement over an event they “never expected” to host.
“We are happy that the Independence celebrations are coming to Matabeleland South Province. It is something we did not expect, and we want to thank His Excellency President Mnangagwa for his devolution policy, which has seen the rotation of national events such as these celebrations,” he said.
He noted that the event has acted as a catalyst for rapid infrastructure growth.
Chief Masendu of Bulilima said hosting the event has already brought tangible development that has placed the “Rainbow Province” on the national map.
“This is a positive development, and as traditional leaders from Matabeleland South, we are very grateful. The hosting of the Independence celebrations in Maphisa has put our province on the map,” he said.
“We have seen roads being rehabilitated, construction of school blocks and laboratories, and boreholes being drilled. These developments have a great impact on people’s lives.”
He also highlighted key projects linked to the event, including developments at the homestead of the late Vice-President and Father Zimbabwe, Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo and the construction of a vocational training centre in his honour.
“That training centre will go a long way in benefiting youths from this province and beyond. This development comes as a result of hosting the Independence celebrations, and we want to express our gratitude to President Mnangagwa for his philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind,” said Chief Masendu.
“As chiefs, we assure all visitors coming to Maphisa of warm hospitality. They are welcome to our rainbow province.”
Extending his gratitude to the Head of State, Chief Bhidi from Kezi said President Mnangagwa’s focus on rural industrialisation was bearing fruit.
“The President has shown us that he is a man of his word. By bringing the celebrations here, he has brought the eyes of the nation to Matobo. We thank him for the dams, the clinics, and the refurbished roads that our people are now using.
“These legacy projects are a gift to our children, and we thank the Second Republic for honouring us with this opportunity,” Chief Bhidi said.
