NMMZ to memorialise Midlands liberation legacy

MIDLANDS Province, long regarded as the bedrock of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, is set to receive renewed attention as the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) embarks on a series of projects aimed at preserving and memorialising the region’s rich historical legacy.

From the infamous detention camps of Wha Wha and Connemara to the iconic Mtapa Hall, where the first Zanu Congress was held in 1964, Midlands played a pivotal role in the fight for independence. The NMMZ is working to ensure that this history is not forgotten, through extensive preservation and exhibition initiatives.

NMMZ acting executive director, Mr Darlington Munyikwa, said the organisation’s mandate is to illuminate the historical legacy of the struggle for independence, with a particular focus on Midlands Province this year.

“The struggle for independence was deeply rooted in Midlands Province, which was home to key detention and restriction centres used to suppress the liberation movement. These sites are of immense historical significance, and our efforts to memorialise them will contribute to preserving Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage,” he said.

Mr Munyikwa said several key sites are under restoration and development, including Mtapa Hall, Wha Wha Prison, Connemara Prison and Sikombela Restriction Camp, as well as the upgrading of district heroes’ acres and the management of the Independence Flame.

He said the historical context of these centres forms a crucial chapter in the broader narrative of the country’s liberation struggle. Midlands was a hotspot of political upheaval and repression, housing brutal detention camps where many nationalist leaders were imprisoned.

Mr Munyikwa said documenting these injustices will ensure that future generations understand the immense sacrifices made for the country’s independence.

“The Midlands Province played a central role in the independence of the country that came about after a protracted struggle and suffering of nationalists in detention and restriction camps,” he said.

One of the most significant sites identified by the NMMZ is Sikombela Restriction Camp. Established in 1964, it was used as a detention centre for prominent nationalist leaders, including the late Cdes Robert Mugabe, Edson Zvobgo and Leopold Takawira.

“The NMMZ plans to construct a field museum at the site, featuring a memorial plinth, a theme park and displays of the original tin huts used by detainees. A borehole has already been drilled and tendering for the construction of the memorial plinth and ablution block is underway,” said Mr Munyikwa.

Another historically significant site is Mtapa Hall in Gweru, where the inaugural Zanu Congress was held in 1964, leading to the decision to wage an armed struggle against colonial rule. The NMMZ is maintaining the building and preparing exhibitions that will feature the congress’ events and the profiles of those who attended.

Connemara Prison, infamous for its harsh treatment of detainees, is also undergoing restoration. The prison was a training ground for colonial police forces.

Mr Munyikwa said the NMMZ is refurbishing the penal detention prison block, transforming it into a museum that will showcase the harsh conditions endured by nationalist leaders.

One of the country’s largest and most notorious detention camps, Wha Wha Prison housed over 2 000 detainees between 1964 and 1979.

Mr Munyikwa said they have completed research and storyline development for the site and are now procuring materials for exhibitions.

As part of the 2025 Independence celebrations, the Independence Flame will pass through all districts of Midlands Province, symbolising the province’s central role in the liberation struggle.

Mr Munyikwa said the proposed route is awaiting final approval. The NMMZ is prioritising the upgrading of graves at Gokwe North and South District Heroes’ Acres, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought for independence are properly honoured.

Mr Munyikwa reiterated that the NMMZ’s efforts are not just about preserving physical structures but also about telling the stories of the men and women who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence.

“These projects will ensure that the legacy of the liberation struggle continues to inspire future generations, making sure that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten,” he said. — @nyeve14