Zimbabweans and Zambians ‘one people’

The Herald, 25 October, 1980

ZAMBIA had paid dearly during the independence war in Zimbabwe, but the people of both countries were one, President Banana said last night.

At a reception given by the Zambian High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, Mr Wamweni Mayondi, marking Zambia’s 16th anniversary of independence, President Banana said: “They were indeed a frontline State. Zambia paid dearly and heavily for our independence. After all, our people are one people and the Zambezi River cannot divide us.”

Mr Mayondi said it was Zambia’s first anniversary since “our sister country Zimbabwe has just won itself independence after a protracted and heroic struggle for freedom and independence”.

In a message to the Zambian High Commissioner, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Muzenda, said there had always been contact between the peoples of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Cooperation between the two nations had “triumphed over human political prejudices” and had “survived all the obstacles nature and man could impose”.

LESSONS FOR TODAY

The assertion that “the Zambezi River cannot divide us” encapsulates a broader understanding of identity that transcends geographical borders. It highlights how shared histories, cultures, languages, and socio-economic interests can unite people despite physical separations imposed by nature or politics.

Zambia and Zimbabwe share a complex historical relationship, particularly during the period leading up to Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980. During the liberation struggle in Zimbabwe, Zambia played a crucial role as a base for liberation movements. Under President Kenneth Kaunda, the Zambian Government provided support in various forms, including military training, logistical assistance, and refuge for thousands of Zimbabwean freedom fighters.

The Zambian economy was significantly impacted by this involvement. The country faced economic challenges due to its proximity to the conflict zones and the influx of refugees. Additionally, Zambia experienced retaliatory attacks from Rhodesian forces aimed at disrupting these liberation efforts. This situation resulted in considerable human and material costs for Zambia.

Both countries have engaged in various cooperative efforts within regional organisations such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to promote economic development and political stability in the region.

Zambia paid dearly during the independence war in Zimbabwe through economic strain and loss of life due to conflict-related activities.