Online Reporter
Harmony Agere
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabweans not to forget the sacrifices of veterans of the liberation struggle, saying their legacy continues to shape national development.
Addressing the 394th Ordinary Session of the ZANU PF Politburo on Wednesday, President Mnangagwa said this year’s Heroes Day commemorations, to be held under the theme “Lest We Forget”, should serve as a reminder of the enduring contribution of those who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence.
“This year’s national Heroes Day commemorations will be held under the theme ‘Lest we forget,'” he said.
“Government, under the Second Republic, will continue to facilitate broad-based initiatives towards the welfare and empowerment of veterans of the liberation struggle.”
The President paid tribute to former Vice President and national hero Cde Joshua Nkomo.
The 27th anniversary of Cde Nkomo’s passing coincided with today’s meeting.
President Mnangagwa also paid tribute to the late national hero, Ambassador Victor Matemadanda.
“The ideological grounding, visionary and principled leadership of luminaries, statesmen and revolutionaries in the mould of Father Zimbabwe must continue to be a source of inspiration for current and future generations,” President Mnangagwa said.
“We shall continue to draw inspiration from the life and legacy of our liberation veterans.”
President Mnangagwa urged the ZANU PF War Veterans League to strengthen collaboration with the Ministry of War Veterans Affairs and other Government agencies to accelerate programmes benefiting former freedom fighters.
Turning to party business, the President called on the Politburo to assess progress on implementing resolutions ahead of the 23rd National People’s Conference, stressing the need for stronger coordination between party departments and Government.
“The policies and programmes of our party-led Government must continue to reflect the values of our party and adherence to the aspirations of the people,” he said.
He also commended members for a successful National Cell Day, saying the exercise demonstrated ZANU PF’s strong grassroots structures and enhanced community participation in governance.
On the economy, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe remained on a positive growth path, with another strong wheat harvest expected, while urging wider adoption of climate-smart agriculture ahead of the forecast 2026-2027 El Niño season.
He also encouraged citizens to participate in economic development, citing the launch of the Victoria Falls International Financial Centre as an opportunity to attract investment and deepen financial markets.
President Mnangagwa further welcomed Zimbabwe’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term and praised the country’s growing international partnerships, particularly with China and Equatorial Guinea, saying they continue to support Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development.
