Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo, Zimpapers Writer
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa will present national flags to the families of Cde Benjamin Burombo, Brigadier-General (Rtd) Lameck Francisco Mutanda, Cde John Mbedzi, and Cde Jairos Jiri, who were posthumously declared National Heroes, during the Heroes Day commemorations scheduled for Monday next week.
Providing an update on the Heroes Day and Defence Forces commemorations during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said final preparations are underway for one of the most significant days on the national calendar.
Additionally, the Minister confirmed that 223 families of heroes and heroines will attend the main Heroes Day celebrations at the National Heroes Acre.
“Final preparations for the 2025 Heroes Day Commemorations are underway, and the main event will be held at the National Heroes Acre in Harare. As is customary, provincial commemorations will also take place across all provinces.
“223 families of fallen heroes and heroines will attend this year’s main event in Harare. His Excellency the President will present national flags to the family representatives of four National Heroes who were posthumously declared as such: Cde Benjamin Burombo; Brigadier-General (Rtd) Lameck Francisco Mutanda; Cde John Mbedzi; and Cde Jairos Jiri,” he said.
Regarding the Defence Forces Day commemorations to be held on August 12 at Rufaro Stadium, Dr Muswere said the event will be held under the theme: “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030.”
Rehearsals for the military parade and displays are underway at Rufaro Stadium.
“Selected entertainment groups will also perform during the event, while a football match between the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Select Team and the reigning Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League champions, Simba Bhora, will crown the celebrations.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day Community Assistance Week commenced on July 28, 2025 and will conclude on August 7, 2025,” he said.
Dr Muswere also noted that Cabinet had received an update on preparations for the 46th Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations, which will be held in Matabeleland South Province next year.
He said initial preparations have begun.
“Cabinet received updates on preparations for the 2025 Heroes Day Commemorations and Defence Forces Day Celebrations, as well as preparations for the 46th Independence Day and Children’s Party Celebrations. Significant progress has been made in preparing for the 46th Independence Day and Children’s Party Celebrations at Maphisa in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.
“Initial venue preparations have commenced, and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been directed to ensure project completion in time for the celebrations scheduled for April 2026,” said Dr Muswere.
