Online Reporter
Farai Dauramanzi in MAPHISA, Matabeleland South
PRESIDENT MNANGAGWA has paid tribute to Matabeleland South Province, describing it as a region of “sacred significance” in Zimbabwe’s liberation history.
Addressing the nation at Maphisa Stadium during the 46th Independence Day celebrations on Saturday, the President said the province bore defining battle sites where liberation fighters confronted Rhodesian forces.
“Many areas saw brutal, protracted and indeed defining encounters, such as the Ratanyana Battleground and war monument, where ZIPRA liberation war fighters fought the racist Rhodesian troops,” President Mnangagwa said.
He cited Zezani, Manama, Minda and Thekwane Missions as zones that remain “haunting and yet heroic reminders of the cruelty suffered by our people.”
President Mnangagwa said the landscapes, mission halls and schools of Matabeleland South told a rich history and stood as symbols of unity for present and future generations.
“They continue to pronounce the enduring truth that the struggle for Independence was executed by all Zimbabweans, who transcended ethnic and regional lines,” he said.
“Their courage, resilience and fortitude saw us realise the Independence, freedom and democracy we enjoy today. We shall forever honour and salute them.”
The President said Matobo and other districts in the province produced distinguished sons and daughters who dedicated their lives to Zimbabwe’s liberation.
He singled out “Father Zimbabwe”, the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo — uMdala Wethu, Chibwe Chitedza — and uMama-Mafuyane, along with national heroes Alfred Nikita Mangena, Lookout Masuku, George “TG” Silundika, Steven Jeqe Nkomo and Simon Khaya Moyo.
“Their patriotism and selfless sacrifice for our motherland, Zimbabwe, remain a source of inspiration to us all,” President Mnangagwa said.
“Tinokutendayi, Siyalibonga Matabeleland South Province, for giving our nation many gallant heroes and heroines who helped to liberate our land from colonial bondage.”
“Today, we own and produce from the land they fought to reclaim, after nearly a century of colonial subjugation,” he said.
Saluting all veterans of the liberation struggle, the President added: “From Plumtree to Mutare and from Beitbridge to Chirundu, Ilizwe ngelethu, Nyika ndeyedu.”
He said the nation would always remember those freedom fighters who did not live to see the fruits of their sacrifices. “Our nation shall always remember and cherish their contribution.”
