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Cletus Mushanawani in Bindura and Walter Nyamukondiwa in Chinhoyi
Thousands of people yesterday thronged Mashonaland Central Provincial Heroes’ Acre in Bindura for this year’s Heroes’ Day commemorations.
Proceedings started around midday with Minister of State for Provincial Affairs Advocate Martin Dinha inspecting a quarter guard and general salute.
He delivered the President’s speech and led the laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier..
He later spent some time with the relatives of the deceased heroes and heroines.
Among delegates were service chiefs, Zanu-PF provincial chairperson Cde Kazembe Kazembe, war veterans chairperson Cde Sam Parirenyatwa, provincial administrator Mr Cosmas Chiringa and chairperson of Bindura Municipality Mr Graciano Manyurureni.
Zanu-PF provincial youth chairman Cde Lens Fernando said as youths they came in their numbers because they value the sacrifices made by gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe, who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence.
“We are here in our thousands to pay respect to the gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe who sacrificed their lives for the freedom we are enjoying today,” he said.
“This year’s commemorations are important as they come after Zanu-PF’s resounding victory in the elections, especially here in Mashonaland Central. We urge the youths to continuously rally behind Zanu-PF and should actively participate in national events.”
In Mashonaland West, thousands gathered at the Chinhoyi Heroes’ Acre, where the main provincial Heroes’ Day celebrations were held.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi led the proceedings.
Minister Ziyambi delivered the President’s speech before leading war veterans, war collaborators, restrictees and service chiefs to lay wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Relatives of fallen heroes also laid wreaths on the graves of the 63 heroes interred at the shrine.
Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans’ Association provincial chairman Cde Cornelius Muoni said more should be done to upgrade and maintain the shrine.
“This is a momentous occasion for the families of the fallen heroes, those living should also see incremental value on the status and standing of liberation fighters,” he said.
Relatives of the deceased comrades welcomed Government’s efforts, but said more should be done to cater for the families of fallen heroes.
People were entertained by the Zimbabwe National Army band and sungura music outfit Rusvingo Stars, among other entertainers.
Online Reporter