Online Reporter
Post Reporters
THOUSANDS of people converged at the Manicaland Provincial Heroes Acre in Mutare this morning to pay tribute to the fallen heroes and heroines.
Many expressed deep appreciation for the educational exhibitions that brought the liberation story to life.
The exhibition, mounted by the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ), showcased the biographies and photographs of the 438 liberation war fighters buried at the provincial shrine.
It offered a rare glimpse into the personal histories of those who played key roles in the country’s independence.
Acting regional director for the NMMZ Eastern Region, Mr Lloyd Makonya said the exhibition sought to preserve history and educate younger generations about the sacrifices made for their freedom.
“Our aim is to highlight the contributions of the liberation war heroes and heroines buried here. Many people do not know who these heroes were beyond their names, and we want to ensure their legacies are not forgotten,” he said.
The exhibition included visual timelines and detailed narratives about the fighters’ roles in the liberation struggle.
Visitors were visibly moved as they stopped to read through the displays.
The Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, delivered the Presidential speech, calling on Zimbabweans to uphold the legacy of fallen heroes and heroines by building a prosperous, sovereign, and industrialised nation.
Minister Mugadza led the proceedings, which included inspecting the guard of honour and the laying of wreaths on the tomb of the unknown soldiers.
In Rusape, thousands of people from different walks of life thronged the Makoni District Heroes Acre, famously known as The Butcher Site, to pay their respects to the fallen heroes and heroines.
The district shrine was renovated by the Government last year, and calls are growing for it to be upgraded into a national monument to enhance its maintenance, security, and documentation of its history.
The proceedings were led by the District Development Coordinator (DDC), Mr Edwin Mashindi, who also delivered President Mnangagwa’s speech.
Families of the late heroes, war veterans, Government officials, and members of the public all attended the commemorations, which featured musical performances and wreath-laying ceremonies.
