tawandamusarurwa
Linea Njaravani
IT was on April 18, 1980 that Zimbabwe was officially declared free from the clutches of British oppressors.
This was after brave sons and daughters of this land selflessly fought for freedom.
The freedom, however, came at a cost, as several lives were lost.
Other freedom fighters lost their limbs during the protracted struggle.
But through selfless efforts, Zimbabwe’s honour was restored.
All manner of oppression was stopped.
With pride and honour, we can now proudly lift our flag high and sing our own national anthem. There is now equal treatment and opportunities for every person regardless of race, language and background, among other considerations.
The former colonial governments never wanted the majority blacks to be in charge of their natural resources, land included.
In fact, the land issue became one of the major reasons gallant sons and daughters of the land took up arms against the rule of the minority whites.
Zimbabwe is now independent and enjoys self-governance.
After Independence, several colonial names of cities, towns and streets were changed.
It is now our duty as the younger generation to make sure we safeguard this independence.
We should also commemorate April 18 every year and appreciate the sacrifices made by both fallen and living freedom fighters.
Linea Njaravani is a Form Two learner at Queen Elizabeth School
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter