By Zachary Gava
Harare, (New Ziana)— The Institute of African Knowledge (INSTAK) has congratulated President Emmerson Mnangagwa on his 84th birthday, while describing the inaugural Munhumutapa Day which coincides with it as an important platform for Zimbabweans to reconnect with the country’s rich pre-colonial history and African civilisation.
In a statement issued to mark the commemorations, INSTAK Board Chairperson Professor Simbi Mubako said the new national day provided an opportunity to deepen appreciation of the political, economic and social systems developed by Africans before colonialism.
Professor Mubako said the Munhumutapa legacy should not be viewed merely as a historical reference, but as evidence of the sophistication and achievements of African societies.
“Munhumutapa represents far more than a name from the distant past. It evokes the lived reality of African societies exercising political authority, organising complex systems of governance, developing productive economies and participating in extensive regional and international trade and relations,” he said.
He said the Second Republic under President Mnangagwa was similarly demonstrating a commitment to holistic development driven by Africans themselves.
Mubako said historical consciousness was central to INSTAK’s mission, arguing that Africa’s ability to shape its future depended on understanding and preserving its own history, knowledge systems and heritage.
“It is particularly fitting that Munhumutapa Day is being celebrated at a time Zimbabwe is investing in institutions and initiatives designed to reclaim, preserve and present the African story from an African perspective,” he said.
He commended President Mnangagwa for his support of INSTAK, particularly the establishment of the Museum of African Liberation at Liberation City.
The Government has accorded the Museum of African Liberation National Project Status, underscoring its intended role in preserving and showcasing the history of Africa’s liberation struggles.
According to Mubako, the museum represents more than a Zimbabwean heritage project, with its significance extending to the broader African continent.
He said Munhumutapa Day should also serve as an educational platform for young Zimbabweans to learn about the civilisations, institutions, innovations and personalities that shaped Africa long before colonial rule.
“As Zimbabwe marks Munhumutapa Day, we celebrate the opportunity to place our rich heritage more firmly within the national consciousness,” Mubako said.
He expressed hope that the commemorations would inspire young people to embrace the national development philosophy encapsulated in the mantra, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo” — the country is built by its owners.
Mubako also extended birthday wishes to President Mnangagwa, wishing him many more years of good health and service to the nation.
The celebrations come as Zimbabwe places renewed emphasis on African heritage, historical consciousness and the recovery of narratives that highlight the continent’s achievements and agency before colonialism.
New Ziana
