Online Reporter
Mashudu Netsianda
MATABELELAND South Province is set to host the 46th National Independence Day celebrations in 2026, while Masvingo Province will take its turn in 2027, in line with the Government’s rotational hosting format across the country’s 10 provinces.
This rotational system, introduced in 2021 under the Second Republic’s Devolution Agenda, marks a significant departure from the tradition of hosting national celebrations exclusively in the capital, Harare.
The initiative aims to promote inclusivity, national unity, and development in all corners of the country.
In his post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said Cabinet approved a new criteria to guide the selection of future host provinces for both the Independence Day commemorations and the Children’s Party.
“Cabinet approved criteria to determine future hosts for Independence Day celebrations and Children’s Party events, based on the national Infrastructure Deficit Index. This prioritises provinces with the greatest infrastructure development needs, among those that have not yet hosted the Uhuru celebrations,” he said.
Dr Muswere said the goal is not only to decentralise national events but also to use them as a strategic tool to stimulate infrastructure growth in underdeveloped areas.
In this context, Matabeleland South has been selected to host the 2026 Independence Day and Children’s Party, while Masvingo will take up the mantle in 2027.
“The goal is to use these events to drive infrastructure growth in targeted areas. In accordance with the approved criteria, the Independence Day Celebrations and Children’s Party are scheduled to be held in Matabeleland South Province in 2026 and Masvingo Province in 2027,” he said.
The 45th Independence Day celebrations, held this year, took place at Mutora Business Centre in Nembudziya, Gokwe North District, Midlands Province.
Previous host provinces include Harare (2021), Bulawayo (2022), Mashonaland Central (2023) and Manicaland (2024), making Midlands the fifth province in the rotation.
“Notwithstanding this precedent, the Second Republic’s Devolution Agenda catalysed a transformative shift, decentralising these events and instituting a rotational format across the 10 provinces, commencing in 2021,” said Dr Muswere.
The hosting of the national Independence celebrations in various provinces has not only brought economic activity to local communities but also ensured that the spirit of Uhuru is experienced across the country.
It has also resulted in major upgrades to local infrastructure, including stadiums, roads and accommodation facilities in each of the host provinces.
The Independence Day commemorations, held every year on April 18, mark Zimbabwe’s liberation from colonial rule in 1980.
Under the new system Independence celebrations have become a platform to showcase provincial development and cultural diversity while reinforcing the national vision of leaving no one and no place behind.
