Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, [email protected]
THE National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) is transforming the historic Ratanyana battle site in Matobo District into a major liberation heritage hub, a development aimed at preserving the country’s liberation history while advancing national consciousness.
The project, one of NMMZ’s flagship legacy initiatives for 2026, will see the once war site in Kezi turned into a fully-fledged Liberation Heritage Interpretive Centre for Matabeleland South Province.
The transformation of Ratanyana comes at a time when Matabeleland South Province is preparing to host this year’s national Independence Day celebrations, further amplifying the site’s significance as a symbol of the country’s liberation history and unity.
In a statement, NMMZ said the initiative reflects its constitutional mandate to safeguard and promote Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage.
“The development at Ratanyana represents a comprehensive undertaking from the ground up — reflecting both the scale of the site’s historical importance and the institution’s commitment to giving it the prominence it deserves,” said NMMZ.
The institution said the vision is to position the site as more than a memorial.
“Our vision is to transform Ratanyana into the major Liberation Heritage Interpretive Centre for Matabeleland South Province.
“This will position the site not only as a place of remembrance, but also as a centre for education, reflection and national consciousness,” reads part of the statement.
NMMZ said key infrastructure is already being rolled out at the site to support its transformation into a national heritage destination.
“This includes a modern interpretive centre that will curate and present the story of the 1979 battle and the broader liberation narrative, a memorial monument to honour the gallant ZIPRA cadres, and supporting facilities such as ablution blocks and a custodian’s residence,” said the agency.
The project will also see the upgrading of graves for fallen fighters and civilians.
“The project encompasses the upgrading of graves for both the fallen fighters and innocent children who lost their lives during indiscriminate aerial bombardments by Rhodesian forces—ensuring that all who perished at Ratanyana are accorded dignity and lasting recognition,” said NMMZ.
Beyond heritage preservation, the project carries a strong community development component, with a clinic being constructed at the site.
“As part of a broader community-oriented approach, a clinic is also being constructed at the site, sponsored by the Lotteries and Gaming Board, bringing essential services closer to surrounding communities,” NMMZ said.
Ratanyana is one of the most poignant sites of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. On February 11, 1979, a fierce battle erupted in the Matobo hills between ZIPRA forces and Rhodesian troops.
The engagement, which lasted several hours, saw liberation fighters resisting a technologically superior enemy.
The battle was not merely a military skirmish; it was a scene of unmatched grit where freedom fighters fought until their last breath. The site is also marked by tragedy, with civilians among the victims.
In a desperate act of vengeance, Rhodesian forces brutally executed four minor children, a chilling reminder that the path to independence was paved with the lives of the innocent.
NMMZ said the project is part of broader efforts to ensure Zimbabwe’s liberation story is told from a national perspective.
“Through these developments, NMMZ seeks to dignify Ratanyana as both a solemn memorial and a vibrant heritage destination,” it added.
“The project underscores our ongoing efforts to correct historical imbalances, foreground Zimbabwean narratives, and ensure that the sacrifices of our liberation heroes are permanently inscribed within the national memory.”
NMMZ also reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to bring the project to completion.
“NMMZ remains committed to working with stakeholders and communities to bring this vision to fruition, in line with broader national objectives of heritage preservation, education and inclusive cultural programming,” it said.
Once complete, the Ratanyana site is expected to become a key national and provincial heritage centre, turning a former battleground into a beacon of remembrance, education and unity.
