By Rutendo Mapfumo

As thousands gathered in Nembudziya, Gokwe for the main Zimbabwe @45 Independence Day celebrations hundreds other gathered in their home areas to commemorate the day with those Hwange district meeting at Lwendulu Old Gropund.

In the spirit of leaving no one and no place behind, those who attended the event were reminded of the role Hwange District played in freeing Zimbabwe from colonial rule including that of sheltering King Lobengula during the First Chimurenga.

Cde Skuza, also known as Davison Ndlovu told the gathering that Hwange served as an entry point for many freedom fighters, especially those heading to Tsholotsho.

The Independence district celebrations drew hundreds of residents, dignitaries, and traditional leaders, all united in commemorating the sacrifices made for Zimbabwe’s independence.

Cde Skuza noted the crucial roles played by traditional leaders, including Chief Whange and others from Matabeleland North, in sheltering and supporting the fighters.

“Even during the First Chimurenga, King Lobengula was kept in the Pasi Pasi area of Hwange, underscoring the district’s longstanding significance in Zimbabwe’s resistance history,” he said.

Cde Skuza urged Zimbabweans to emulate the visionary leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and to work collectively towards achieving Vision 2030. He reminded citizens that the responsibility to develop Hwange and the nation lies with its people.

“No one will work for us; no one will come to rescue us. We should work towards developing our Hwange and our country as a whole,” he said.

He encouraged economic self-reliance in the face of ongoing economic challenges, including the impact of sanctions, and stressed the importance of building local businesses and narratives.

Cde Skuza paid tribute to local heroes, such as Nehwati Maninga, and recalled significant battles fought in the region, including the Chisuma and Kalisosa battles, where many colonial forces were defeated and buried in Hwange.

These historical events, he noted, are integral to understanding the district’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s independence.

Reeds Dube, the Zanu PF Hwange Central Shadow MP, highlighted the importance of Independence Day celebrations in educating young people, especially those born after 2000, about the reasons behind the liberation struggle and the ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.

He stressed that such commemorations instil a sense of purpose and national pride in the younger generation, aligning them with the vision of the Second Republic and the goals of Vision 2030.

The celebrations in Hwange were part of a nationwide series of events, with the main national ceremony held in Gokwe, provincial festivities in Tsholotsho, and district-level gatherings across the country.

In Hwange Central Constituency, the event was marked by performances from Lwendulu Primary School, the Slow Poison entertainment group, Hwange College of Education, and a spirited tug-of-war competition. Local leaders, including Chiefs Whange, government officials, and community members, attended the event, which also featured football and netball tournaments.

The theme for this year’s Independence Day, “Zim@45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030,” reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development and decentralisation, ensuring that no community is left behind in the nation’s progress.