Sidumisile Mabena
Zimpapers Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa on Saturday placed Matabeleland South at the heart of Zimbabwe’s liberation story, describing the province as sacred ground where some of the most defining battles against colonial rule were fought.
Addressing thousands gathered at Maphisa Stadium for the 46th Independence Day celebrations, he said the province’s landscape carries the scars and spirit of the struggle, with places such as Ratanyana, Zezani in Beitbridge, Manama in Gwanda, Minda in Matobo and Thekwane in Bulilima standing out as enduring symbols of sacrifice and resistance.
“Matabeleland South Province is of sacred significance in the history of our country. Many areas saw brutal, protracted and indeed defining encounters,” he said.
The President paid tribute to ZIPRA liberation fighters who engaged Rhodesian forces in fierce confrontations across the province, saying their bravery helped shape the country’s eventual independence in 1980.
Beyond the battlefields, mission stations and schools across the province remain living reminders of a united struggle that cut across ethnic and regional lines.
“The struggle for Independence was executed by all Zimbabweans, who transcended ethnic and regional lines. Their courage, resilience and fortitude saw us realise the freedom and democracy we enjoy today,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also honoured some of the country’s most revered national figures who hail from the province, including the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, whom he described as a towering nationalist and founding father.
Other liberation stalwarts from the region such as Alfred Nikita Mangena, Lookout Masuku, George “TG” Silundika, Steven Jeqe Nkomo and Simon Khaya Moyo were also recognised for their contribution to the armed struggle.
“Their patriotism and selfless sacrifice for our motherland remain a source of inspiration to us all,” said the President.
He said Zimbabweans must continue to honour both living and fallen heroes, noting that while some lived to witness independence, many paid the ultimate price.
“Our nation shall always remember and cherish their contribution,” he said.
The President underscored that the liberation war was fought to reclaim land and dignity, adding that today’s generation carries the responsibility of safeguarding those gains.
As the country marked 46 years of independence, President Mnangagwa called for unity, reminding Zimbabweans that the liberation struggle was a collective national effort.
From Plumtree to Mutare and from Beitbridge to Chirundu, he said, Zimbabwe remains one nation bound by a shared history and destiny.
“Ilizwe ngelethu, nyika ndeyedu,” he said to loud cheers from the crowd.
Online Reporter