By Zachary Gava
Harare, (New Ziana) – The Institute of African Knowledge (INSTAK) has called on youth to embrace the responsibility of preserving the country’s liberation history, saying understanding the sacrifices of the past is critical to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and shaping its future.
As the country commemorated Heroes Day holiday on Monday in memory of freedom fighters who waged war to free the country British colonial rule, INSTAK said the occasion should go beyond an annual holiday and provide an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the values that drove the country’s liberation struggle.
The institute said patriotism, courage, unity, self-determination and sacrifice remained important principles that should continue to guide present and future generations.
“Knowing that history is not simply about remembering the past; it is about understanding the responsibilities that accompany freedom and inspiring young people to contribute meaningfully to a shared future,” INSTAK said in a statement.
The call comes as the institute celebrates its 10th anniversary, with the preservation and transmission of African history and heritage remaining central to its mandate.
INSTAK said the responsibility to preserve liberation history was particularly important among young Zimbabweans, who must understand the struggles and sacrifices that secured the country’s independence.
The institute said its work was also being anchored by the development of the Museum of African Liberation at Liberation City, which is intended to preserve the stories, artefacts, records and experiences of Africa’s liberation movements.
According to INSTAK, the museum will help ensure that future generations have an opportunity to encounter the continent’s liberation history through an authentically African narrative.
“The Museum of African Liberation, being developed by INSTAK at Liberation City, is part of this national and continental responsibility,” the institute said.
The organisation said preserving the liberation story was not merely about documenting historical events, but also about ensuring that the values and lessons emerging from the struggle were passed on to future generations.
It urged Zimbabweans, particularly young people, to learn from the generation that liberated the country and assume an active role in protecting Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, heritage and future.
INSTAK also joined President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Government and the people of Zimbabwe in commemorating the men and women whose courage, sacrifice and determination secured the country’s independence and contributed to the liberation of Southern Africa.
The institute said Heroes Day remained an important moment for Zimbabweans to reflect on the price paid for freedom and the responsibility of successive generations to preserve its legacy.
New Ziana
