Sharon Chigeza
CHIMANIMANI – In a historic first, thousands of people gathered at Nhedziwa High School in Chimanimani West on Friday to commemorate Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day.
This year’s Independence celebrations were celebrated under the theme Zim@45 Devolve and Develop together towards vision 2030.
Despite chilly and rainy weather, the turnout reflected the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to celebrating this pivotal national event. The move to hold the provincial celebrations outside the traditional venue of Mutare aligns with the Second Republic’s devolution agenda, aimed at promoting local governance and community involvement.
The event drew significant attention, including a delegation from Mozambique led by Professor Lourenco Mateus Lindondo, the State Secretary for Manica Province.
Their participation underscored the importance of regional ties and the shared history between the two countries.
The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Manicaland, Misheck Mugadza, officiated the ceremony, delivering President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s speech, which emphasised unity, resilience, and the ongoing journey towards national development.
In addition to the festivities in Chimanimani, other districts across Manicaland also participated in the Independence Day celebrations. The Mutasa district commemorated the occasion at Hauna Airstrip in Honde Valley, where the day took on a heartwarming twist. The Mutasa state occasions committee visited mothers who gave birth on this significant day at Hauna District Hospital, showering them with gifts to celebrate their new beginnings.
Acting District Development Coordinator Tedius Beto served as the Guest of Honour at the Mutasa celebrations. He presented baby essentials, including blankets, jerseys, Pampers, wipes, and petroleum jelly, to two mothers. Cecelia Chiripawako, who welcomed a baby girl, was overjoyed when Beto named her child Rusununguko, meaning ‘freedom’. Meanwhile, Priviledge Mabhozhera, who gave birth to a baby boy, received the name Freedom for her child from the Member of Parliament for Mutasa North, Obey Bvute.
Beto highlighted the significance of being born on Independence Day, stating that the gifts represented the Government’s commitment to supporting families in Zimbabwe.
After the hospital visit, delegates proceeded to Hauna Airstrip, where the main celebrations continued. Despite the rain impacting attendance, the crowd was filled with joy and pride at being part of the historic event. Beto read the Independence speech, echoing themes of unity and progress.
In Rusape, Vengere Stadium turned into a vibrant venue as celebrants from Makoni district enjoyed a variety of entertainment, showcasing cultural performances that highlighted Zimbabwe’s rich heritage. Meanwhile, celebrations in Mutare district were held for the first time at Gomorefu High School in Marange, with an after-party gala planned for the Mutare Showgrounds, adding to the day’s festivities.
The Independence Day commemorations in Manicaland not only celebrated the country’s freedom but also marked a significant step towards inclusivity and community engagement in national events.
