Online Reporter
Peter Matika, Senior Zimpapers Writer
ZIMBABWEANS from across the socio-political and cultural divide have renewed calls to safeguard the values of peace, tolerance and national cohesion inspired by the signing of the historic Unity Accord in 1987.
The country commemorated the Unity Day holiday yesterday, an outcome of a defining moment and selfless determination by the country’s political leadership to preserve peace and love following a civil strife that broke out in the early years of the country’s independence.
The Unity Accord has been defined as a watershed moment in Zimbabwe’s history, when former liberation movements — Zanu and PF-Zapu, led by the late former President Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe, and the late former
Vice-President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, buried their differences and laid the foundation for the merger of the two parties into a single political entity — Zanu PF.
Yesterday, President Mnangagwa led the nation in calling for the upholding and honour of the historic Unity Accord, reinforcing the principle that unity is central to national stability, development and social harmony.
He said Zimbabwe was experiencing significant progress and transformation in various socio-economic sectors since the signing of the Unity Accord 38 years ago, and therefore it is the responsibility of every Zimbabwean to continue industrialising and modernising the economy in an environment of hard work and unity.
His key message for the day hammered on the gains the country has recorded, the “countless victories”, highlighting the strength of the nation as a cohesive unit.
“As we reflect on the journey we have travelled since the signing of the Unity Accord, we continue to celebrate the countless victories we have scored as one united Nation,” President Mnangagwa said.
“The National Development Strategy 1, which concludes this year, has delivered. Going forward, NDS 2 was launched, with our focus shifting to industrialisation, value addition and inclusive growth.
“We are committed to accelerating the transformation of our economy, creating jobs and improving the quality of life of our people.”
President Mnangagwa said the peace and stability being enjoyed in the country have seen various sectors across the economy breaking production records and positively impacting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, different stakeholders said the Unity Day remains a powerful reminder of the importance of dialogue, forgiveness and collective responsibility in shaping a prosperous and united Zimbabwe, regardless of political affiliation, ethnic background or social standing.
Bulawayo businessman and Zero Supplies (Pvt) Ltd director, Mr Clemence Kunzekweguta, who is also a devout Christian, said the Unity Accord was a turning point that restored hope to a nation that had endured painful divisions.
“Unity Day is not just another public holiday. It’s a day that symbolises the maturity of our leadership at the time to put national interest above personal or party differences,” he said.
“From the day it was incepted, Unity Day has reminded us that political differences should never be allowed to tear the nation apart. We may belong to different parties or tribes, but we are one Zimbabwe.”
The businessman said the spirit of unity ushered in by the Accord laid the foundation for peace and development, particularly in communities that were previously affected by conflict.
Council for Churches in Africa (CCA) President, Archbishop Rocky Moyo, said Unity Day carries deep social meaning, especially for ordinary citizens who yearn for harmony and mutual respect.
“As families, unity is everything. When leaders came together in 1987, they showed us that reconciliation is possible. Unity Day teaches our children that Ndebele, Shona, Kalanga, Tonga and all other tribes belong to one nation. It promotes social cohesion and respect for one another,” he said.
Archbishop Moyo said the day should continue to be used as a platform to educate younger generations about the country’s history, the pain caused by divisions and the value of peaceful coexistence.
Upcoming political analyst and youth mentor, Mr Tawanda Moyo, said Unity Day remains relevant in contemporary Zimbabwe, particularly in fostering political tolerance and democratic engagement.
“From its inception, Unity Day has been about healing political wounds and creating an inclusive national identity. Even today, it sends a strong message that political competition must never descend into hatred or violence,” he said.
“The Unity Accord teaches us that dialogue is always the solution, no matter how deep the differences.”
Mr Moyo said the observance of Unity Day should inspire citizens and political actors alike to prioritise peaceful coexistence, respect for divergent views and constructive engagement, especially during election periods.
Mr Nathaniel Maphosa, a Bulawayo resident, said Unity Day resonates strongly with African values of Ubuntu, reconciliation and collective responsibility.
“Our culture teaches us that a divided homestead cannot stand. Unity Day reminds us of who we are as Africans and as Zimbabweans. It unites all tribes and communities under one flag and one vision,” he said.
“It must remain a sacred and historical day for generations to come.”
Mr Maphosa said traditional leaders have a responsibility to promote unity at grassroot level by discouraging tribalism, hate speech and intolerance, while fostering peaceful coexistence within communities.
Businesswoman, Ms Sazini Tshuma, said national unity is essential for economic growth and social stability.
“A peaceful and united country creates confidence for investment and development. Unity Day is a reminder that when Zimbabweans work together, regardless of background or political beliefs, we can overcome economic challenges and build a better future,” she said.
Ms Tshuma added that the unity achieved through the 1987 Accord should continue to inspire collective effort in addressing contemporary socio-economic challenges.
A youthful Bulawayo resident, who preferred anonymity, said Unity Day must be preserved as a living chapter of the nation’s history rather than a symbolic date on the calendar.
“As young people, we were not there when the Unity Accord was signed, but its impact is part of our lived reality.
“Unity Day must remain a historical event in the future because it teaches us valuable lessons about peace, compromise, and national identity.
“It should be taught in schools and discussed openly so that we never repeat the mistakes of the past,” said the youth.
Stakeholders agreed that every Zimbabwean has a duty to defend the values of unity and inclusivity in an era often marked by polarisation and misinformation.
