Online Reporter
Cletus Mushanawani recently in BEIRA, Mozambique
IN a poignant gesture of remembrance and solidarity, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, last Thursday led a Zimbabwean delegation during a visit to the revered Nhangau Shrine just outside the City of Beira.
This sacred site holds profound historical significance, serving as the final resting place for 77 fallen heroes and heroines who laid down their lives during Zimbabwe’s arduous liberation struggle.
During his visit, Minister Mugadza paid tribute to the brave men and women who fought tirelessly for Zimbabwe’s independence, acknowledging their unwavering dedication and ultimate sacrifice.
The tour underscores the enduring bond between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, two nations united by a shared history and a common pursuit of peace, stability, and prosperity.
As Minister Mugadza honoured the fallen heroes, he also reinforced the importance of preserving the legacy of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past continue to inspire future generations.
This historic visit highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, while also celebrating the rich cultural heritage and shared experiences that bind the two nations together.
In an interview at Nhangau Shrine, Minister Mugadza said: “We are here at Nhangau Shrine in Beira to show our respect to the gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe who were massacred during the liberation struggle. We want to thank President Mnangagwa for continuously reminding us on the importance of honouring the gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe who sacrificed their lives to ensure that we have the independence we are enjoying today.
“Our visit to Nhangau Shrine serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, respect, and regional solidarity, as Zimbabwe and Mozambique continue to forge a path of mutual cooperation and development.”
According to the caretaker of Nhangau Shrine, Ms Maria Nzai, 77 freedom fighters (50 males and 27 women) were massacred by the brutal Ian Douglas Smith-led Rhodesian Forces.
“We are not sure of the actual dates of the massacre, but some say it was between 1975 and 1976 when the freedom fighters were bombed by the Rhodesian Forces while they were having lunch at their Nhangau Camp. We understand 50 male and 27 female combatants perished during the attack, as they were caught off-guard. Some survived the attack, and we have one survivor who usually visits this shrine to pay his respect to fellow comrades.
“The remains of the fallen heroes and heroines were exhumed and reburied at this shrine around 2001 after a ceremony to honour them was done earlier. The local community has also been very supportive in maintaining this shrine,” she said.
Having been impressed by the tremendous work being carried out by the elderly Ms Nzai in maintaining the shrine, Chipinge businessman, Mr Garikai Nhamo Gwenzi undertook to construct a house to her.
“I was moved by Mbuya Nzai’s dedication to duty. She is doing a great job in maintaining this shrine where gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe are buried. The freedom we are enjoying in Zimbabwe came from the sacrifices of the fallen heroes and heroines buried at this shrine. As a businessman, I decided to honour their efforts through constructing a house for the caretaker of the shrine, Mbuya Nzai. We are prepared to work on the project as soon as possible. Once we get the bill of quantities, we will ask our Mutare office to avail the money for the project.
‘‘Mbuya Nzai’s dedication to duty is unparalleled, and we are forever grateful,” said Mr Gwenzi.
Delegates who accompanied Minister Mugadza also donated 12 000 meticais to Mbuya Nzai as a token of appreciation for her dedication to duty despite her advanced age.
