Bongani Ndlovu
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE journey of the Independence Flame through Gwanda District on Sunday saw the historic emblem pass through Gwanda Town, where it was received with dance and ululation by residents from the mining town.
The flame was in the morning transported to Manama Mission School in Gwanda, where a ceremony was held in honour of over 400 cadres who responded to the call made by the revolutionary leaders and courageously departed from the institution to join the liberation struggle in 1977. In January 1977, during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, over 400 pupils, teachers and nurses from Manama High School left for Botswana to join the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) in Zambia.
The flame arrived in Gwanda from Beitbridge on Saturday night as it continues to weave its way through communities ahead of the main Uhuru commemorations in Maphisa District, Matabeleland South Province.
Its route from Beitbridge through Gwanda, Insiza, Umzingwane, Bulilima and Mangwe, before arrival in Matobo, is considered deeply symbolic.
In the afternoon, the Independence Flame was paraded in Gwanda Town, with its first stop being Phakama Business Centre. Addressing residents and officials who had gathered, Gwanda mayor Alderman Thulani Moyo said the town receives the flame with gratitude and honour. He called on residents from the town to take pride in and embrace such historic events.
The flame was further paraded at Zebrine Complex in the CBD. People of all age groups gathered to catch a glimpse of the emblem.
On Monday, the flame will go to Insiza District; on Tuesday, Umzingwane District; while on Wednesday, the Independence Flame will move to Bulilima and Mangwe districts. On Thursday morning, the Independence Flame will depart for Matobo District. A second lighting ceremony will be held at Ratanyana in Matobo District on Friday, which will be presided over by President Kembo Mohadi.
The flame’s journey began in Beitbridge District, with an official launch on April 10, 2026, in Zezani during a ceremony that was led by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter