LIVE: President Mnangagwa hosts Children’s Party in Maphisa

Welcome to our Live blog where we shall be covering the Children’s Party being presided over by President Mnangagwa at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa on Friday, ahead of Independence Day Main celebrations on Saturday.

President Mnangagwa will be accompanied by the First Lady, Amai Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, who has been actively involved in social and community development initiatives, particularly those aimed at improving the lives of women and children. Government officials, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders are also expected to attend the colourful event.

Over 3 000 children from the country’s 10 provinces are attending this year’s party.

Our reporters, Vusumuzi Dube, Gibson Mhaka, Nqobile Bhebhe and photographer Eliah Saushoma are in Maphisa to cover the event and will be giving updates.

 

President Mnangagwa to preside over Children’s party in Maphisa

President Mnangagwa is today expected to preside over the pre-independence Children’s Party at Mahetshe Primary School, in a build-up to the country’s Independence Day commemorations on Saturday.

The annual Children’s Party, which celebrates Zimbabwe’s young citizens, is being held in Maphisa, the hosts of this year’s independence celebrations, drawing learners, educators, and community members from all over the country.

President Mnangagwa will be accompanied by the First Lady, Amai Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, who has been actively involved in social and community development initiatives, particularly those aimed at improving the lives of women and children.

Government officials, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders are also expected to attend the colourful event. Over 3 000 children from the country’s 10 provinces are attending this year’s party.

WATCH: Children from Matabeleland North doing their war cry as they await the arrival of President Mnangagwa and the First Lady Amai Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.

 

WATCH: Its excitement galore in Mahetshe as children from the country’s 10 province waive their scarfs during the Children’s party

 

WATCH: Brain Ndebele a Form 1 pupil from St Joseph High School says he is excited to be attending this year’s Children’s Party.

 

 

WATCH: Junior Councillor (Ward 22 in Matobo RDC), Senior Lian Dube speaks on his excitement in attending this year’s Children’s Party.

 

 

President Mnangagwa to unveil Memorial Tree Park at Mahetshe Primary School

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is today expected to unveil a historic Memorial Tree Park at Mahetshe Primary School in Matabeleland South, a landmark initiative that weaves together the nation’s liberation heritage with environmental conservation.

The ceremony, which marks Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Anniversary, will see the planting of 46 Natal Mahogany (Trichilia emetica) trees, representing each year of the country’s freedom since 1980.

The project is described as a “living monument” designed to honour iconic heroes of the liberation struggle, both living and departed, while mainstreaming environmental issues into the
national developmental agenda.

The tree-planting exercise will be led by the Presidium and senior government officials, with each Natal Mahogany—known locally as Umthunzini—dedicated to a specific luminary of the struggle.

Minister of Defence and Zanu-PF National Chairperson, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, will plant a tree in honour of the late founding President, Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe, while Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga will plant in memory of the late nationalist Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo.

Vice President Col (Rtd) Kembo Mohadi will honour Dr Samuel Parirenyatwa, the pioneer physician and patriot, and First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa will plant a tree in memory of the mother of the nation, Mama Johanna MaFuyane.

Other notable participants joining the proceedings include the Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, who will honour the late Cde Simon Khaya Moyo, and the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyne Ndlovu.

Former ZIPRA commander and liberation war hero Cde Moffat Hadebe will also take part in the exercise. Representing the future of the nation and the continuity of this legacy, the Head Boy and Head Girl of Mahetshe Primary School will plant trees to mark the 46-year milestone.

Speaking ahead of the proceedings, Forestry Commission Information and Communications Manager, Ms Violet Makoto, said the establishment of the park is a significant milestone in documenting the country’s history through nature.

She noted that the memorial park at Mahetshe Primary School will allow the nation to tell the story of these iconic figures, where they came from, and how they contributed to the liberation of Zimbabwe.

Ms Makoto highlighted that having tree planting on the agenda for independence commemorations ensures a lasting legacy and shows that conservation is being integrated into the country’s most topical issues.

Furthermore, Ms Makoto pointed out the symbolic link between the nation’s birth and its conservation history, noting that the first National Tree Planting Day was established on December 6, 1980, the same year Zimbabwe attained independence.

She expressed satisfaction that 46 years later, tree planting remains high on the developmental agenda. She added that the involvement of the Presidium at such a high level serves as testimony to the country’s commitment to keeping its forests in good status, ensuring that forest resources remain a priority for national development.

In addition to the memorial trees, the park features a striking portrait of President Mnangagwa, positioned alongside a poignant reconstruction of Cell 44, the very cell at Khami Maximum Prison where he was once incarcerated during the liberation struggle.

This installation serves as a powerful visual narrative of his personal journey from a young revolutionary facing a death sentence to the leader of a sovereign nation. By bringing this piece of history to Mahetshe Primary School, the park bridges the gap between the past and the present, offering students a tangible connection to the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country’s freedom.

The inclusion of the Cell 44 replica at the Tree Park is a deliberate act of historical preservation, ensuring that the stories of resilience and survival are never forgotten.

As the President unveils this site, it stands as a testament to the “Crocodile Gang” member’s endurance under the brutal Rhodesian regime and his eventual triumph.

For the local community and the nation at large, the display transforms the school grounds into a sacred space of reflection, where the 46 trees and the prison cell reconstruction together symbolize the growth of a nation that emerged from the shadows of colonial oppression into the light of independence.

The Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyne Ndlovu, has arrived at the Memorial Tree Park at Mahetshe Primary School, where she is set to participate in the historic tree-planting proceedings. Her arrival underscores the Government’s commitment to integrating environmental stewardship with national heritage, as she joins the Presidium in honoring the nation’s liberation icons.

Minister Ndlovu is expected to plant a Natal Mahogany, contributing to the 46-tree orchard that symbolizes Zimbabwe’s journey since 1980 and reinforces the vital role of forest conservation in the country’s developmental agenda.

The Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyne Ndlovu, is seen sharing a lighthearted and engaging conversation with the legendary former ZIPRA commander, Cde Moffat Hadebe, at the Memorial Tree Park.

The two stood amidst the newly prepared grounds at Mahetshe Primary School, reflecting on the profound legacy of the liberation struggle before they each took up their spades to plant trees.

Their interaction underscored the spirit of unity defining the 46th Independence celebrations, as the policy-maker and the veteran guerrilla leader joined hands to root the memories of Zimbabwe’s heroes into the very soil they fought to liberate.

 

President Mnangagwa to officially open Mahetshe Primary School computer laboratory

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is on Friday expected to officially open Mahetshe Primary School computer laboratory as Government through the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services intensifies its drive to bridge the digital divide gap.

The computer laboratory was built by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) as part of legacy projects in Matabeleland South province.

The ICT Ministry and the telecommunications regulator, Potraz equipped the computer laboratory with 30 computers, one whiteboard and one printer.

ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera, her deputy Dingumuzi Phuti, the chief director Mr Sibanda have arrived at the school.

President Mnangagwa is expected to donate computers and Starlink kits to schools from the province’s seven districts.

WATCH: President Mnangagwa arrives in Bulawayo for Children’s Party in Maphisa

President Mnangagwa has arrived in Bulawayo en route to Maphisa, where he is expected to preside over the pre-Independence Children’s Party at Mahetshe Primary School.

President Mnangagwa was welcomed at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport by the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Judith Ncube, alongside Zanu-PF Bulawayo Province leadership.

The annual Children’s Party, a key highlight of the build-up to the country’s Independence Day commemorations on Saturday, is being hosted in Maphisa, Matabeleland South Province, the venue for this year’s national celebrations.

More than 3 000 children drawn from Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces are attending the event, which celebrates the country’s young citizens through various educational and recreational activities.

Government officials, traditional leaders and other stakeholders are expected to grace the colourful occasion, which underscores the Second Republic’s commitment to the well-being and empowerment of children.

President Mnangagwa arrived on Friday at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa, Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province for this year’s Children’s Party, one of the key build-up events to the country’s Independence Day commemorations on Saturday.

The President, accompanied by the First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa were met by senior Government officials for the colourful event, which has drawn more than 3 000 learners from all the country’s 10 provinces.

The annual Children’s Party is a platform designed to instill a sense of national pride, unity and appreciation of the country’s liberation history among the young generation.

Learners from across Zimbabwe are being afforded an opportunity to interact, celebrate and reflect on the values of independence, with the event also promoting inclusivity by bringing together children from both rural and urban areas.

The programme further highlights the Second Republic’s thrust on devolution, as national events continue to be decentralised, ensuring that communities across the country benefit from infrastructure development and increased access to opportunities.

President Mnangagwa commissions Mahetshe Primary School computer lab, unveils major education upgrades

President Mnangagwa has officially opened the Mahetshe Primary School Computer Laboratory and unveiled a plaque marking the commissioning of new educational infrastructure at the school in Maphisa, Matobo District.

The President presided over the ceremony as part of the Children’s Party programme, which is being held at Mahetshe Primary School in Matabeleland South Province and has drawn thousands of learners from across the country.

As part of the developments, the school has benefitted from three new classroom blocks which complement existing facilities, three staff houses, a fully equipped science laboratory, and two ablution blocks, significantly upgrading the learning environment.

President Mnangagwa also handed over 210 computers and 208 Starlink kits to the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerai Moyo.

Of the computers, 60 have been allocated to Mahetshe Primary School, while the remainder will be distributed to schools across Matabeleland South Province as part of Government’s drive to expand access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in learning institutions.

President Mnangagwa commissioned Mahetshe Primary School business unit a programme that aims to capacitate the school with skills and equipment to financially sustain themselves through green energy-driven, innovative and productive agricultural projects.

 

 

 

 

 

President Mnangagwa, accompanied by the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, senior government officials and school children, spearheaded a tree planting initiative at Mahetshe Primary School, Kushanduka Mubengo Tree Park.

The tree planted today is the Natal Mahogany tree. This Tree is dedicated to Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, a towering son of the soil whose life was deeply rooted in the struggle for Zimbabwe’s freedom and unity.
#ZimAt46

 

 

President Mnangagwa has officially handed over a set of newly constructed houses for war veterans at Maphisa Growth Point.

 

 

 

The modern residences feature solar energy, piped water, Wi-Fi connectivity, and solar-powered hot water systems, among other amenities, ensuring enhanced comfort and sustainable living for the beneficiaries.
#ZimAt46

 

President Mnangagwa has arrived back at the venue of the Children’s party at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa, to kickstart proceedings.

The party has drawn thousands of excited young attendees from across the nation.

The President, is being accompanied by the First Lady, Amai Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.

He was greeted with thunderous cheers and ululations as he entered the venue.

Children clad in colourful outfits waved flags and cheered in celebration, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

Primary and Secondary School Minister Moyo hails youth at 46th Children’s Party

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Professor Torerayi Moyo has introduced 3 050 child delegates from across Zimbabwe’s ten provinces to the President at the 46th Children’s Party.

“It is an honour and a privilege to introduce the 3,050 child delegates drawn from across all ten provinces to you, Your Excellency,” Prof Moyo said during his introductory remarks.

He said the selection of Mahetshe Primary School as the venue underscores the Government’s commitment to the devolution and decentralisation agenda, ensuring that the fruits of Independence reach every corner of the nation, leaving no one and no place behind.

The Minister noted that the delegates were selected through a rigorous process that prioritises academic merit, leadership potential, and geographical diversity.

“They are the primary beneficiaries of the Heritage-Based Education, which emphasises technological innovation and heritage-based learning to solve local challenges,” he said.

Linking the event to national identity, Prof Moyo invoked the words of the late nationalist Dr Joshua Nkomo: “The future of this land lies in the hands of those who understand its history and value its peace.”

“By bringing these children to Matobo, a region rich with the echoes of our ancestors and the resilience of our people, we are anchoring their identity in the soil of their forefathers.

“This gathering is a celebration of our national unity as defined by the Constitution, where the diversity of our indigenous languages and cultures forms a single, unbreakable Zimbabwean fabric.”

Prof Moyo said the children had come not only to celebrate the Children’s Party and Independence, but also to draw inspiration from the President’s visionary leadership and deep commitment to the welfare and development of every child in Zimbabwe.

“Your own life is an inspiration to all of them and has great lessons that should stir and motivate them to continue to strive for the best in their own lives,” he told the President.

Giving a breakdown of the delegates, the Minister said: “Before you, Your Excellency, are 500 child delegates from the 10 provinces, comprising 250 boys and 250 girls, with each of the provinces bringing in 50 delegates. Their number includes His Excellency, the Child President, representatives of the Junior Parliament, and Junior Councillors.”

He added that Matabeleland South, as the host province, “has brought in 2 000 child delegates drawn from its 7 districts.”

“Amongst them are 500 other child delegates who will showcase Mass Displays tomorrow during the Main Independence Anniversary Celebrations. Fifty pupils make up the choir that sang the National Anthem and recited the National School Pledge, all drawn from Matabeleland South Province,” Prof Moyo said.

“Your Excellency, before you, therefore, is a contingent of 3 050 child delegates who have come to celebrate with you on this special day,” he said.

Presenting the delegates, the Minister declared: “I now have the distinct honour, Your Excellency, to present to you and to the nation these 3,050 young ambassadors. They are drawn from every corner of Zimbabwe, from the vibrant cities of Harare and Bulawayo, the fertile highlands of Manicaland, the mineral-rich landscapes of Mashonaland, and the vast plains of Masvingo and Matabeleland.”

“They stand before you as a living embodiment of our national hopes and aspirations, confident, determined, and ready to learn, to lead, and to safeguard the sovereignty and future of our great motherland, Zimbabwe,” he said.

“Your Excellency, I proudly present to you the future custodians of Great Zimbabwe,” Prof Moyo concluded, before introducing delegates from each province to offer their war cries.

The Children’s Party precedes the Main Independence Anniversary Celebrations set for Saturday.

President Mnangagwa challenges youths to be hard workers

President Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabwean youths to uphold the nation’s work ethic, saying children must play an active role in development at home, in communities, and at school.

“I want to remind you, our children, that Zimbabweans are a hard-working people,” President Mnangagwa said while addressing child delegates at the 46th Children’s Party at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa on Friday.

“Asi funi mavila / hatidi usimbe. We want children that work and help with duties at home, in the communities and at school,” he said.

The President challenged learners to take full advantage of Agriculture Business Units established in schools countrywide as part of the Government’s drive to promote productivity and self-reliance.

“In this respect, it is my expectation that learners will work hard and learn as much as they can from the Agriculture Business Units, that have been set up in various schools throughout the country, including here, at Mahetshe,” he said.

He revealed that at national level, agreements have been reached to ensure that the School-based Agriculture Business Units, together with Village Business Units, not only produce for local consumption but also for export.

School heads were directed to coordinate the productivity and sustainability of these entities.

President Mnangagwa also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development in the education sector, noting that projects at the host schools demonstrate Government’s commitment to equitable development.

“Meanwhile, the construction of classroom blocks and modern teachers’ houses at Mahetshe Primary and Secondary Schools, reflect my Government’s commitment to quality infrastructure for educators and learners alike regardless of where the schools are located,” he said.

“We shall continue to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, towards the realisation of equitable social services and development.”

The President was speaking before 3 050 child delegates drawn from all ten provinces who gathered in Matobo for the Children’s Party ahead of the main Independence Anniversary Celebrations.

President Mnangagwa declares zero tolerance on drugs, school violence

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has declared a zero-tolerance stance on drug and substance abuse, bullying and all forms of violence in schools, warning that Government will take decisive action against perpetrators to safeguard the well-being of learners.

Addressing thousands of children at the 46th Independence Day Children’s Party held at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa on Friday, the eve of Indepedence Day, the President said indiscipline and social ills threatening the country’s young generation would not be tolerated.

“My Government will not tolerate criminal delinquency, such as bullying, abuse and violence of whatever nature. Stay away from drugs and substance abuse,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said schools must remain safe environments where children can learn without fear, stigma or discrimination.

“No child should ever feel afraid, stigmatised and discriminated in schools and places or environments where they must learn and pursue their studies,” he said.

The President placed responsibility on both educators and parents to ensure children are protected, nurtured and guided, particularly in the face of growing social challenges.

He warned that authorities would act firmly against any form of abuse within learning institutions.

“Educators, you have a sacred responsibility to protect and nurture our children within the learning environments. Abuses and excesses of any kind will be dealt with. Punitive measures must be meted out against all perpetrators,” said President Mnangagwa.

The President also encouraged learners to speak out against abuse, assuring them that authorities are ready to listen and act.

“I urge you, our children, to speak up, we the adults are listening. We stand ready to act decisively and apply the required safety measures to secure and protect your well-being,” he said.

President Mnangagwa called on schools to expand sporting and cultural activities as a way of keeping children engaged and steering them away from harmful behaviours.

He said increased participation in sports, arts and creative activities would help curb idleness, which often leads to delinquency and substance abuse, while also aiding talent identification at grassroots level.

President Mnangagwa urged learners to remain disciplined, focused on their studies and committed to building a prosperous Zimbabwe.

President Mnangagwa receives a portrait of himself and Child President Lionel Mazarire.