Londile Moyo
Gibson Mhaka recently in Maphisa, [email protected]
MINISTER of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Cde Albert Nguluvhe, has expressed profound gratitude to President Mnangagwa and various stakeholders following the successful hosting of the 46th Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa, Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province, on Saturday.
Minister Nguluvhe said the event was a practical demon-stration of the Second Republic’s philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind, which has seen national events being decentralised to bring the significance of Uhuru closer to communities across the country.
Speaking in the wake of the historic celebrations, Minister Nguluvhe attributed the success of the event to the unity of purpose exhibited by the local community, business sector, legislators, traditional leaders and Government agencies.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, for his mantra that no one and no place will be left behind. Indeed, here in Matabeleland South province, we have not been left behind,” said Cde Nguluvhe.
Reflecting on the tangible benefits of hosting the event, Minister Nguluvhe said the celebrations had left a lasting imprint on the province through several high-impact legacy projects.
He highlighted the construction of a new stadium, the rehabilitation of local roads and the restoration of the Ratanyana Shrines as some of the key developments undertaken ahead of the national event.
In addition, the province benefitted from the establishment of 40 science laboratories across its districts, as well as improved ICT connectivity, including the distribution of over 100 000 Starlink kits to enhance network access.
Cde Nguluvhe also commended the provincial leadership and business community for taking ownership of the event, emphasising that the celebrations were not only for Maphisa, but for the entire province.
He particularly praised the spirit of generosity shown by residents and well-wishers in ensuring that thousands of delegates were catered for.
“The people of Matabeleland South donated a lot. We received over 42 beasts from locals, as well as vegetables and groceries from our business community. Even a Member of Parliament from the Midlands province reached out to support us. This shows that when we are united, we can achieve our goals,” he said.
Commenting on the smooth execution of the event, Cde Nguluvhe said it was a clear testament to the power of unity and cooperation.
“What I discovered is that unity is the key. We were united and we knew what we wanted to achieve. My appeal to the people of Zimbabwe is that when you are divided, you cannot achieve much, but when you are united, you can accomplish anything,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe also extended his appreciation to the media for its role in documenting the province’s journey and keeping the nation informed ahead of the event.
Meanwhile, more than 50,000 people attended the main Independence Day celebrations, in a historic gathering that combined a bumper crowd with a vibrant display of national unity and pride.
This year’s commemorations were held under the theme, “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030,” which resonated strongly with the spirit of togetherness exhibited by the diverse crowd.
The successful hosting of the national event in Maphisa also underscored the Government’s commitment to decentralising national programmes and ensuring that development reaches all parts of the country.
Online Reporter