Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
A TOTAL of 40 science learning laboratories are set to be established in Matabeleland South as part of legacy projects to be implemented in the province for hosting the 2026 Independence Day celebrations. The science laboratories form part of a broader package of development projects under the education sector.
Other planned developments include the renovation of classroom blocks, construction of eight new classroom blocks and eight modern teachers’ cottages at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa, which has been selected as the venue for the Children’s Party.
Two Early Childhood Development (ECD) classroom blocks and a computer laboratory will also be built, while the school’s sports field will be upgraded.
Mahetshe Secondary School, also in Maphisa, has been earmarked as the venue for the music gala. A 700-seater hall and four additional classroom blocks will be constructed, along with an A-level block, computer lab, staff toilets, two science laboratories, an administration block and teachers’ cottages.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said these projects will significantly boost the province’s education sector.
He stressed that preparations for the celebrations require the involvement of all stakeholders, adding that other priority areas include improving network coverage and surfacing major roads.
“It’s a great honour and privilege for us as a province to host next year’s Independence Day celebrations. Hosting this event comes with significant development for our province, which will have a lasting impact on the lives of community members. One of the sectors that will record major development is education. About 40 science laboratories are set to be constructed in schools across the province.
“Computer laboratories will also be built. This will be a huge boost for the province’s education system. Learning science and computer skills is crucial for building critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and creativity among learners. The learners will be empowered to use these skills to contribute to national development,” said the minister.
Other projects include the construction of the Gwanda-Maphisa Road, which is already underway. Work on the first 10km stretch of the highway has commenced.
The road will enhance connectivity and economic activity in the region, linking several districts and vital economic centres, including Arda Antelope, the Makwe irrigation scheme, two border posts and various tourist sites in Matobo.
Once completed, the road is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Gwanda and surrounding districts, particularly Matobo, improving access to services and opening up new economic opportunities in mining, agriculture and tourism.
Minister Nguluvhe also urged stakeholders to embrace the celebrations and prioritise hiring locals and awarding tenders to local companies.
“Citizens from Matabeleland South should own these celebrations. We need unity as a province. Each individual has a role to play in making this day a success — from the highest office bearer to community members,” he said.
Other works to be carried out by local authorities and Government ministries include rehabilitation of 2 600km of road network across the province and completion of Kezi Hospital, which will be equipped to deliver effective healthcare services.
Next year’s Independence Day celebrations and Children’s Party will be held in Maphisa, Matabeleland South, followed by Masvingo in 2027. The venues have been selected in line with Cabinet-approved criteria for hosting the annual Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations.
The Second Republic’s Devolution Agenda has catalysed a transformative shift, decentralising these events and introducing a rotational format across the 10 provinces since 2021. The rotation has seen Harare hosting in 2021, Bulawayo in 2022, Mashonaland Central in 2023, Manicaland in 2024 and Midlands in 2025.
The goal is to use these events to drive infrastructure growth in targeted areas. This year’s Independence Day celebrations and the 2025 Children’s Party were held in Gokwe North District, Midlands Province. — @DubeMatutu
