Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka in MAPHISA
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa yesterday marked Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Anniversary with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony at the Memorial Tree Park at Mahetshe Primary School, an event that blended remembrance, heritage and a forward-looking vision for national development.
He planted a Natal Mahogany (umthunzini) tree in honour of the late Vice President Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, describing him as a towering son of the soil whose life was deeply rooted in the struggle for Zimbabwe’s independence.
First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa also planted a commemorative tree in honour of Mama MaFuyane, while former ZIPRA commander and liberation war hero, Cde Moffat Hadebe, joined the ceremony.
A warm and poignant moment unfolded as President Mnangagwa shared time with Cde Hadebe, reflecting the enduring bond between Zimbabwe’s leadership and liberation war veterans. During the liberation struggle both the President and Cde Hadebe were detained at Khami Prison outside Bulawayo.
The President later toured the Jason “Ziyaphapha” Moyo Museum, situated near the Tree Park, further grounding the commemorations in the country’s liberation history.
In a gesture symbolising continuity and the nation’s future, the head boy and head girl of Mahetshe Primary School also planted trees to mark the milestone.
The commemorations took on an even more personal tone when learners recited a poem that deeply moved the President.
The poem reflected on his grandfather, Kushanduka, who was raised within the court of King Mzilikazi under the traditions of the Ndebele State. It highlighted how this historical arrangement helped cement strong relations between Chief Chivi and the Ndebele King.
According to the narration, Kushanduka was later renamed Mubengo, rising through the ranks as a skilled warrior. He was trained in the art of war and went on to deputise the renowned General Mtshana Khumalo, who is remembered for his role in defeating the Allan Wilson Patrol at Pupu in Lupane during the Anglo-Ndebele War. The recitation, rich in cultural pride and historical depth, visibly charmed the President and drew admiration from attendees.
Clearly touched by the performance and the enthusiasm of the learners, President Mnangagwa went on to donate a bus to Mahetshe Primary School, a gesture aimed at improving access to education for the rural community.
Speaking after the event, Forestry Commission information and communications manager, Ms Violet Makoto, said the memorial park represents an important step in preserving Zimbabwe’s history through environmental conservation
“The memorial park at Mahetshe Primary School will allow the nation to tell the story of these iconic figures where they came from and how they contributed to the liberation of Zimbabwe,” she said.
Ms Makoto emphasised that integrating tree planting into Independence celebrations ensures a lasting legacy while promoting environmental stewardship.
“Having tree planting on the Independence programme shows that conservation is being integrated into the country’s most topical issues, ensuring that future generations benefit from these initiatives,” she said.
Ms Makoto also noted the historical link between independence and conservation, pointing out that Zimbabwe’s first National Tree Planting Day was established on December 6, 1980, the same year the country attained independence.
“It is gratifying that 46 years later, tree planting remains high on the developmental agenda,” she added.
Ms Makoto said the participation of the Presidium demonstrates a strong Government commitment to sustainable forest management and environmental protection.
Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa also commissioned the Mahetshe Primary School Business Unit, a one-hectare project under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development. The initiative features modern drip irrigation, four 10 000-litre water storage tanks, two fishponds, a communal water point and two 1,5-horsepower solar-powered boreholes.
Implemented in partnership with key agencies including the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA), ARDA, AFC and the Agricultural Marketing Authority, the project is designed to enhance rural livelihoods and practical agricultural education.
To further support the initiative, the President donated US$1 000 towards the project, reinforcing Government’s commitment to rural development, empowerment and sustainable community growth.
The day’s events, blending history, culture, environmental stewardship and investment in education, underscored the enduring significance of Zimbabwe’s Independence and the shared responsibility of preserving its legacy for generations to come.
