marble nkomo
Vusumuzi Dube in Maphisa
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has warned against the growing scourge of drug abuse, bullying and violence among children, stressing that Government will not tolerate criminal delinquency as Zimbabwe marks 46 years of independence.
Addressing thousands of children at the annual Pre-Independence Day Children’s Party held yesterday at Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa, Matobo District, the President said the country’s future rests on a disciplined, responsible and patriotic young generation that upholds unity, peace and national identity.
“My Government will not tolerate criminal delinquency, such as bullying, abuse and violence of whatever nature. Stay away from drugs and substance abuse,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said every child has the right to feel safe, valued and protected within learning institutions, adding that discrimination and stigmatisation have no place in schools.
“No child should ever feel afraid, stigmatised and discriminated in schools and places or environments where they must learn and pursue their studies. Educators, you have a sacred responsibility to protect and nurture our children within the learning environments.”
He warned that any form of abuse within schools would be dealt with firmly, noting that authorities are prepared to take decisive action to safeguard children.
“Abuses and excesses of any kind will be dealt with. Punitive measures must be meted out against all perpetrators,” he said.
The President also encouraged children to speak out against abuse, assuring them that Government remains committed to listening and strengthening safety measures aimed at protecting their welfare.
He further urged schools to expand sporting, cultural and creative programmes as a strategy to nurture talent at grassroots level while curbing idleness, delinquency and drug abuse.
Beyond addressing social ills, President Mnangagwa emphasised the importance of national unity, peace and patriotism, reminding children that Zimbabwe’s independence was attained through immense sacrifice.
He said unity, peace and love for country remain central pillars of national development and challenged the younger generation to safeguard the gains of independence.
“As we celebrate 46 years of our Independence, let us remember that unity, peace and love of our country is the fuel that drives our development,” said the President.
He urged the children to remain proud of their Zimbabwean identity and to apply themselves diligently to their studies, noting that they are central to the success of Vision 2030.
“You are not just future leaders, but you are critical building blocks to the social and economic prosperity of Zimbabwe,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President also reminded the children that the country’s independence came at great cost, as many young people abandoned their schooling, families and communities to fight in a brutal liberation war.
“Basuka ezikolo, basuka emakhaya, besiyalwela ilizwe lethu, empini. It was not easy, some died, others were injured,” he said.
He noted that Matabeleland South Province is home to many departed and living liberation heroes and heroines who played a central role in the struggle.
“This province, in particular is home to many departed and living heroes and heroines who fought in the liberation struggle. These include the late Father Zimbabwe, Umdala Wethu, Vice President, Cde Joshua Nkomo, uMama MaFuyana Johanna Nkomo, and Cde Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo, among many others.
“The role they played for our Independence, freedom, unity, peace and democracy, along with that of other national heroes, must continue to be cherished by you the children and young people. This gathering, includes representatives from across all provinces and districts, which reflects our national unity,” said President Mnangagwa.
He urged the children to always treasure national unity, harmony and love for Zimbabwe.
“As the President, along with other leaders and elders, I urge you all to always value this unity, harmony and the love for our country. We all sing one national anthem and fly one national flag.”
President Mnangagwa said regardless of provincial origin, Zimbabweans remain one people who must respect each other’s cultural diversity and coexist peacefully.
“Your grandparents, mothers and fathers, uncles and aunties, fought for national liberation, independence, freedom and democracy. Now it is your turn and duty to work hard for the success, modernisation, industrialisation and prosperity of Zimbabwe,” said President Mnangagwa.
Also present at the event were Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Child President Lionel Mazarire, Cabinet ministers and senior Government officials.
About 3 050 children drawn from all the country’s 10 provinces attended the party. The Children’s Pre Independence Day Party is an annual event that brings together children from across Zimbabwe to commemorate national freedom while promoting patriotism, unity and youth empowerment.
Online Reporter