Online Reporter
Zimbabwe’s Independence Day: A triumph of liberation
The story of Zimbabwe’s Independence Day is deeply intertwined with the country’s journey towards sovereignty.
For many years, Zimbabwe, previously known as Rhodesia, was under the colonial rule of the British South African Company (BSAC). The indigenous people of the country underwent extreme discrimination, land dispossession, and political marginalization.
However, in the face of adversity, the people of Zimbabwe came together and united in their quest for liberation, fueled by the determination to reclaim their rights and dignity.
The struggle for independence was not without sacrifice.
During the movement, thousands of people lost their lives, and many others endured unimaginable hardships in the pursuit of freedom. Yet, their resilience and unwavering commitment to the cause kept the flame of hope burning bright.
The efforts were not in vain as on April 18, 1980, Zimbabwe gained independence, marking the end of colonial rule and the beginning of a new chapter in its history.
Zimbabweans took to the streets, celebrating their hard-fought victory and the hope of a brighter future for generations to come.
Over four decades later, Zimbabwe has made significant strides in various aspects of development, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
While the journey has been marked by numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, the resilience and determination of Zimbabweans continue to inspire the nation to overcome these setbacks and strive for progress.
As we commemorate Zimbabwe’s Independence Day in a few days, may this date serve as a reminder of the power of unity, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity. edu-africa.com
US$1 pupil levy rejected
The Government has dismissed a directive for school children in Gweru District to contribute up to US$1 each towards the 2025 Independence Day celebrations, stating that there is already adequate funding for the national event.
In a statement, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education said the levy had not been unauthorised.
“The Ministry has already secured adequate funding through the national budget for all Independence Day commemorations, including planned activities in Gokwe,” reads the statement.
“There is no requirement for schools, learners, parents, or community members to contribute financially to these events.”
The Ministry said the letter issued by the Gweru District Schools Inspector, requesting such contributions, is unwarranted.
Authorities have since initiated an immediate inquiry into the matter, and the official responsible for the directive will be asked to explain their actions, which violate established protocols.
“All school heads, teachers, and stakeholders are instructed to disregard the directive.
“No payments should be solicited or collected for this purpose.
“Any individual or institution put under pressure to contribute is urged to report the matter directly to the Ministry.”
PREPARATIONS for this year’s national Independence Day celebrations have accelerated, with construction materials and equipment now on site.
Workers are upgrading access roads to facilitate travel to and from Gokwe North.
Today we begin the countdown to the country’s 45th Independence celebrations. Zimpapers Politics Hub is following the story with keen interest as it develops and will keep you informed.
It is going to be an interesting month on this thread.
Happy reading!
Gokwe, the place to be on April 18
This year’s celebrations will take place at Nembudziya Growth Point Open Ground in Gokwe North, under the theme Zim@45: Devolve and Develop Together towards Vision 2030.
The Second Republic introduced a rotational system for hosting the Uhuru celebrations, and last year, Murambinda in Buhera, Manicaland, hosted the event.
Organisers expect the April 18th celebrations to draw over 60 000 people from all ten provinces of Zimbabwe.
In an interview with Zimpapers Politics Hub, Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Owen Ncube said preparations are progressing well.
“We have received materials and equipment is now on site. We are working diligently to complete all access roads to Gokwe South within the next 30 days,” Minister Ncube said.
“We are improving the Kwekwe-Chitekete Road and all access roads leading to the venue. Additionally, we are drilling boreholes and planting lawn on the soccer pitch, which will host the Independence match. Everything is proceeding according to plan.”
On Monday, Minister Ncube presided over a preparatory meeting in Midlands Province to assess preparations for the grand national event.
At the meeting, it was revealed that the venue and access roads have been revamped, whilst over 200 beasts have been secured.
To transport delegates to the venues, the Government has mobilised over 369 buses for equitable distribution across the country’s provinces.
The national Independence Day celebrations are expected to usher in massive developmental projects for Gokwe Nembudziya, including infrastructure upgrades on roads, clinics, schools and network base stations.
Construction of legacy projects is underway at the main arena in Gokwe North Open Grounds, the gala site at Nembudziya Government High School, and the Children’s Party venue at Nyamuroro High School.
What to expect
As per tradition, the Children’s Party will precede the main celebrations on April 17th at Nyamuroro High School, followed by the Independence Gala at Nembudziya Government High School on the eve of April 18th.
The First Family will host 3 050 child delegates at Nyamuroro High School on April 17th. Child delegates will arrive at Nyamuroro High School on April 15th and depart on April 19th.
Highlights of the events leading up to the celebrations include the customary torch relay and the lighting of the Independence Flame enroute to the main venue. A diverse group of artists and dance groups from Kwekwe, Gokwe, and other districts will perform during the celebrations.
Simba Bhora and FC Platinum football clubs, the top two teams in the Premier League, will play during the main Independence Day Anniversary celebrations.
Herentals Queens and Black Rhinos Football Clubs will play during the 2025 Children’s Party celebrations.
Last year, Dynamos and Highlanders played during the Uhuru celebrations in Buhera.
Traditional leaders welcome Independence celebrations
Traditional leaders in Gokwe have said they feel honoured by the decision made by the Second Republic to hold this year’s main independence celebrations in the district, saying the decision shatters Gokwe’s long-standing perception of neglect and signifies a profound recognition of its place within the nation.
Chief Chireya expressed gratitude to the Second Republic for honouring the district with the opportunity to host these significant celebrations.
“I was at Nembudziya Growth Point, and while monitoring the progress of preparations, I witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of hosting these celebrations. As a traditional leader from this district, I am deeply grateful to the Second Republic for honouring us with the opportunity to host these significant celebrations.
“The legacy projects built for this event will bring lasting benefits to our district. For example, Nembudziya Government High School, the Gala site, and Nyamuroro High School, the Children’s Party venue, have all seen substantial improvements. Classrooms have been refurbished, and reliable water supplies have been established through newly drilled boreholes,” said Chief Chireya.
The Government ensured a supply of clean, safe, and adequate drinking water by drilling 110 boreholes in Gokwe North and South districts, including three boreholes at the event sites.
“Importantly, Gokwe North now boasts a stadium, a direct result of these celebrations. We anticipate people from Kadoma, Kwekwe, and beyond will come to utilise this facility. This development signifies a major step forward for our community,” added Chief Chireya.
Chief Nemangwe concurred, stating that the preparations for Independence Day have brought development to the district.
Nembudziya Road gets facelift ahead of Independence celebrations
Work has begun on the Alaska-Kenzamba-Nembudziya Road after the contractor moved onsite to start rehabilitation of the road ahead of the 45th Independence Day celebrations set for Nembudziya in Gokwe North.
To improve access to the venue, Frogmerge Construction is rehabilitating a 40-kilometre stretch of road from Makonde to Gokwe-Nembudziya Constituency.
The project involves re-gravelling, grading and surface compaction.
Mr Webster Magaya, the company’s Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) officer, who is also assisting in supervising the project, said the task will be completed ahead of the celebrations.
Makonde legislator, Cde Simbarashe Ziyambi, said the road’s rehabilitation will benefit the community by improving transport links and accessibility.
The project has also created employment opportunities for local youths who have been engaged by the contractor.
Once completed, the rehabilitated road will significantly shorten travel distances between Harare, Mashonaland Central and the western parts of Mashonaland West Province, making it easier for people to reach Nembudziya.
May the young people please stand up
Innocent Mujeri
Patriotism is not an outdated concept, it is the heartbeat of any thriving nation.
A country that lacks patriotic citizens—especially among its youth—risks stagnation, division, and chaos.
Instead of being agents of destruction and disorder, the young people of today must rise to become the pillars of national progress.
The youths must embrace patriotism, love for their country, and a commitment to development. This is not just a moral obligation, but a necessity for national growth and stability.
When young people put their country first, the nation thrives.
Patriotism fosters unity, innovation, and progress. A patriotic youth understands that their country comes before personal or tribal interests. They do not engage in activities that divide the nation, such as ethnic clashes, political violence, or discrimination. Instead, they work to build bridges between different communities, fostering peace and cohesion.
When young people love their country, they become dedicated to its development. They take education seriously, pursue careers with passion, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
When young people actively contribute to national growth, they foster a culture of supporting local businesses, investing in domestic industries, and promoting the country’s economic stability.
Unfortunately, some young people today have been lured into chaos, crime, and activities that hinder development. They have become part of destructive protests, engaging in cybercrime, or indulging in vices that weaken the moral fabric of the nation.
When the youth abandon patriotism, they inadvertently harm their own future.
The youth of today must take a lesson from the young men and women who came before them. Those who fought for independence did not do so with selfish intentions. They laid down their lives for a better future, one that today’s youth now enjoy.
They valued sacrifice, hard work, and unity. If they had chosen chaos over patriotism, the country would not be where it is today.
The youths must rise to the occasion, reject divisiveness, and embrace the spirit of patriotism. Only then can they truly honour the sacrifices of the past and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.
Uhuru celebration preps in full swing
Preparations for the 45th Independence celebrations, set for Gokwe North in the Midlands Province, have gathered momentum as the country gears up for the annual Uhuru celebrations.
In his post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said contractors have accelerated works at the main arena, Gokwe North Open Grounds, with significant progress having been made in lawn planting, terracing, construction of changing rooms, floodlight installation and construction of ablution blocks.
“The venue for the Children’s Party, Nyamuroro High School, is undergoing substantial transformation through the construction of two ablution blocks and two student hostels, both of which are almost complete,” he said.
“Regarding works at Nembudziya Government High School, the Gala Site, construction of one ablution block, two classroom blocks, a domestic science laboratory, and a senior science laboratory has reached wall plate level, with roof installation being the next phase.”
Dr Muswere said, with regard to legacy projects, the Government has adopted both short and long-term plans for the Midlands Province in general, adding that long-term interventions include the ongoing rehabilitation of roads and related infrastructure under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme.
He said the short-term interventions include the re-gravelling and surfacing of major feeder roads to and from Nembudziya Growth Point, with completion targeted for before April 17.
Dr Muswere mentioned that a cumulative total of 129 boreholes have been drilled in the Gokwe districts, with seven boreholes having been drilled at the venue site, while a total water storage capacity of 60 000 litres has been set aside for potable water during the celebrations.
In terms of health and wellness, 10 emergency health management teams, 10 ambulances, an air ambulance, and emergency kits have been mobilised.
A VIP ward, isolation centre, and 16 telemedicine centres have been established.
Independence Flame route
Dr Muswere said the Independence Flame will pass through various centres in Mberengwa, Gweru, Kwekwe, past the Sikombela former Detention Camp and Gokwe District, until it reaches Nembudziya Growth Point and Mutapa Hall on April 10, where it will be lit by Vice President, Dr Constantino Chiwenga.
“Thereafter, it will proceed through all the Midlands districts until it reaches the Sikombela former Restriction Camp on April 17, where it will be received by Vice President Kembo Mohadi.
“It will then proceed to its final destination at Nembudziya Growth Point,” said Dr Muswere.
Facelift for places of liberation struggle significance
Minister Muswere said a total of 132 graves across heroes’ shrines in the Midlands Province are being adorned with concrete slabs, while the construction of a field museum and a memorial plinth at the former Sikombela Restriction Camp will be completed before April 17.
“Other places of liberation struggle significance, such as Connemara and Mutapa Hall, have already been facelifted. A VaShangwe Cultural Village legacy project will be established at Nembudziya Growth Point for the 45th Independence Celebrations,” said Dr Muswere.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere updates the nation on the Independence Day preparations.
Independence Day preps in home stretch
FINAL preparations for the 45th Independence Day national celebrations, set for Friday at Nembudziya Growth Point in Gokwe North, are underway.
A total of 369 buses have been mobilised to transport people from across the country to the main venue. At the same time, the police are ready to ensure the safety and smooth movement of people during the celebrations.
At the main venue, the football pitch, ablution facilities, terraces and access roads are now over 90 percent complete.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe told The Sunday Mail that all work will be completed on time.
“Preparations at the main venue in Gokwe Nembudziya are at an advanced stage and progressing well,” he said.
“All the other supporting infrastructure at the main ground, including changing rooms, are almost done.
“They are doing plastering and a few touch-ups, but most of the work is done.
“As of last Thursday, ablution blocks were at 90 percent, while terraces and access roads were nearing completion. We are confident that all works will meet the highest standards.”
“We have drilled and equipped three boreholes, supplemented by three 5 000-litre water tanks,” he added.
“Electricity supply has been secured and backup generators are in place.”
Access roads leading to and from Nembudziya Growth Point are being upgraded by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.
Official proceedings to commence on Thursday
Official proceedings will begin on Thursday with the annual Children’s Party at Nyamuroro High School, hosted by President Mnangagwa and First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.
More than 3 000 children from across the country are expected to attend the event, which will feature entertainment, educational activities and a formal luncheon with the First Family.
“The next day, the main celebrations will be held at the Nembudziya Growth Point Open Ground venue in Gokwe North,” said Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe.
“An Independence Gala will be hosted at Nembudziya Government High School on the eve of the celebrations.
“On April 18, the celebration’s major highlight will be the address by the President and thereafter there will be a soccer match between Simba Bhora and FC Platinum.”
Musicians promise fireworks at 45th Uhuru bash
AN array of musicians billed for the 45th Uhuru Musical Gala in Gokwe are eager to perform, with many promising spectacular displays.
Midlands-born singers Admire “Chief Hwenje” Sibanda and Peter “Young Igwe” Moyo will take the stage in their home province.
Dendera star Sulumani Chimbetu, Sandra Ndebele, Simon Mutambi, Tendai Dembo, Clement Magwaza, DT Bio Mudimba, Shantel Sithole, Andy Muridzo, Mark Ngwazi, the Mbare Chimurenga Choir and Jah Signal are also part of the line-up.
With just two days to go before the gala, which is set to awaken Gokwe from its deep slumber, fans can expect a night of unforgettable entertainment, featuring various acts ready to impress.
Peter Moyo, heir to the Utakataka Express, has promised nothing but fireworks.
“It feels good to perform in my home area, where I have a strong connection to my roots,” he stated.
“I last performed in Gokwe last year, but this time, I am returning for this national event. I will give it my all, as it’s an honour to represent my country at this level.”
Chief Hwenje, a familiar face at State functions and national events, is also brimming with confidence.
“It’s going to be an epic night for me and my crew. It’s an honour to host this event in the Midlands, where I come from.
“For many people in Gokwe, this will be their first time hosting household names in showbiz. It’s a night not to be missed, filled with fun from 6pm to 6am in Nembudziya.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Suluman Chimbetu’s camp.
Speaking through his manager, Sulu assured fans of an unforgettable experience.
“We are going there to show them what we are made of. It’s always great to perform at national events where we can add variety,” the manager noted.
Sandra, who last performed in Gokwe a decade ago, has also promised a memorable show. Fondly known as Sandy, she rarely disappoints when it comes to live performances.
Ngwazi, a crowd favourite, has been given another opportunity to shine.
Backed by the exceptional Njanja Express, he blends humour with music and aims to demonstrate that he still has the magic.
This extensive list of performers would be incomplete without mentioning Andy Muridzo and Jah Master, both of whom consistently captivate audiences.
Gospel enthusiasts can look forward to Argatha Murudzwa, whose career continues to blaze a trail of success.
With such an impressive line-up, fun is guaranteed.
Ultimately, the 45th Uhuru celebrations are not just an event; they represent the unity, strength, and resilience of the Zimbabwean people.
Herentals, Rhinos Queens in Uhuru showdown
AS Zimbabwe marks 45 years of independence this Friday, the celebrations will roar into life in Nembudziya, Gokwe, and women’s football will take centre stage.
In a historic first, Women’s Premier Soccer League giants Herentals Queens and Black Rhinos Queens will clash in an exhibition match at the Presidential Children’s Party, an annual event hosted by President Mnangagwa and the First Family on the eve of Independence Day.
This special encounter, scheduled for Nyamuroro High School on April 17, will set the tone for the highly anticipated men’s Independence Cup final between Simba Bhora and FC Platinum, also to be played in Nembudziya.
Zimbabwe Women’s Premier Soccer League (ZWPSL) chairperson Theresa Maguraushe said the invitation is a landmark recognition of the women’s game and a signal of growing respect for its role in national development.
“It means a lot for the women’s game to be invited to play at such a huge event, in front of the President,” she said.
“It ceases to be merely about football — this is now an issue of national development and the role we are understood to play in that as women in the game of football.”
The match between Herentals and Rhinos has grown into one of the marquee fixtures in women’s football, and this cup clash adds another exciting chapter to their rivalry.
Looking back….
Residents in Bulawayo sprinted while celebrating Independence Day Celebrations at Queens Ground on 18 April 1981.
The procession of floats approached the commemorative Independence Celebrations Column along Third Avenue in Bulawayo while residents of nearby Makokoba suburb gathered to witness the beginning of the City’s third year of independence celebrations on 17 April 1983.
Bulawayo City Council workmen erected the Independence Column along 6th Avenue on 17 April 1982, visibly bringing the Independence Celebrations to life.
