admin
Azareal Zhou Cool Writer
Surely nothing beats the feeling of being independent after being oppressed economically, socially and politically.
It is such an exhilarating feeling that our country got to be independent before over explosion of resources.
One cannot begin to describe the feeling of independence in Zimbabwe considering the past experiences.
This feeling is rather two-sided, taking a look at the post-independence time and now.
The first side is filled with joy and pride that this country is now under the rule of its own people.
Unlike before when there was no freedom of expression, and no say in the activities of the Government.
Black people could not vote, nor get representation for their political views in their own country.
Oppression at the end of the day is a sickening experience. Socially, the people of Zimbabwe faced social injustice. There were restrictions in parks and some streets such as First Street in Harare where black people could not pass through or visit. Black people had limited access to quality goods.
Economically, it was disheartening, there were taxes and yet the blacks did not have access to farms and quality soils.
Zimbabweans were given a small piece of land (not fertile) subdivided among a large number of people. Being independent therefore sure fills one with joy and strong nationalistic feelings. Unlike that time black people now have full representation before the law.
There are also no more restricted areas for Zimbabweans, be they black or white. It is now a city of a million colours. Zimbabweans are now owning those farms which were being occupied by whites which is surely an exhilarating feeling.
Nowadays there is education for all which means everyone has a right to go to school regardless of origins or race which was unimaginable during the colonial era.
The other feeling, however, although it is now clouded by that of joy, is sadness.
The reason for this feeling is the bloodshed that paid for the Independence.
Ambuya Nehanda and Sekuru Kaguvi alongside thousands other strong and patriotic comrades paid for this Independence with their lives.
This surely makes one to feel sad being able to enjoy the fruits they toiled for and never got to taste.
With those that lived to feed on their sweat, our President (Mugabe) and many other comrades, we surely salute you and we are overjoyed with the feeling of Independence.
It beats any feeling whatsoever.
The writer is 19 years old and learns at St Mary’s High School
Online Reporter