Mat North appeals for donations

Leonard Ncube Victoria Falls Reporter
MATABELELAND North Province is seeking donations in cash or kind to revamp Lupane Provincial Heroes’ Acre following concerns about the state of the shrine. The country commemorates Heroes’ Day on August 10 and the state of the provincial heroes’ acre has irked families whose relatives are buried there. The shrine is not fenced and some graves have no tombstones while animals and people criss-cross through the hallowed grounds at will.

The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs in Matabeleland North, Cde Cain Mathema, yesterday told The Chronicle that plans were underway to renovate the facility, but there were no funds because of sanctions.

Cde Mathema said Heroes’ Day commemorations should cascade to family level because of their importance and everyone should feel challenged to donate.

“We want the shrine revamped but there are no funds because of the sanctions imposed on the country. We’ll do our best but the situation at the moment is a reflection of how the economy is performing,” said Cde Mathema.

“We need the heroes’ acre fenced. We appeal for donations and anyone wishing to donate can do so through the Provincial Administrators’ Office.”

Cde Mathema said the provincial shrine requires water connections, a shed and a lawn turf, among others.

“We’re seeking donations and the people of Matabeleland North should at least give something in cash or kind. There are a number of things that need to be done in line with the requirements of the National Museums and Monuments on Zimbabwe (NMMZ). I can’t give finer details about how much is needed as those details are with NMMZ,” he added.

Meanwhile, Cde Mathema said the province was ready for the commemorations.

Different committees that include transport, catering and fundraising have been activated and are already working towards holding a successful day.

“We’re ready. Teams are always there and are led by the PA Latiso Dlamini and as a province we’ll all be in Lupane on the day,” he said.

Cde Mathema encouraged all Zimbabweans to regard the day highly.

He appealed for donations towards the commemorations saying well-wishers should get in touch with the PA or District Administrators around the province.