Princess Sibanda
Beitbridge- Twenty-two graves of liberation war heroes were visited and read at Makakavule District Heroes Acre in Beitbridge as Zimbabwe marked the 46th Heroes Day commemorations, bringing the national call to “Lest We Forget” closer to communities.
The Acting District Development Co-ordinator Mr Jahson Mugodzwa led the proceedings.
Present at the event were Beitbridge mayor Councillor Peter Mafuta, Beitbridge West MP Cde Thusani Ndou, Beitbridge Rural District Council chairperson Councillor Oscar Chiromo and many other govenment officials.
The grave visits formed part of efforts to honour fallen heroes and heroines whose sacrifices contributed to Zimbabwe’s independence, as communities across the country gathered to remember those who dedicated their lives to the liberation struggle.
The commemorations came under the theme “Lest We Forget,” with President Emmerson Mnangagwa stressing the importance of preserving the memory and legacy of those who laid the foundations for the Zimbabwe of today.
The reading of the 22 graves provided a poignant reminder of that history, giving communities an opportunity to connect with the names and stories of individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Government is also undertaking historical research and biography updates for fallen heroes, while the digitisation of liberation war archives and the integration of liberation heritage into the education curriculum and tourism circuits are being pursued.
The 22 graves therefore stood not only as places of remembrance, but as enduring reminders of the sacrifices that secured Zimbabwe’s independence ensuring that the nation’s history is passed from one generation to the next.
Present also were family members and friends of the buried heroes who expressed gratitude.
Cde Happiness Sibanda said she lost her best friend Mathani Muleya, her best friend during the war.
We fought a good fight my friend, lala ngokuthula, I miss you everyday, she said.
