Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe is set to mark its 2025 Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day with grandeur and reflection, as preparations intensify for the national commemorations.
This was announced by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday.
Dr. Muswere said Cabinet had received updates on the country’s readiness to host this year’s major national events, including the Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day commemorations, as well as the 46th Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations slated for 2026.
“Final preparations for the 2025 Heroes Day Commemorations are underway,” said Dr. Muswere. “The main event will take place at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, with provincial commemorations scheduled across all provinces.”
A total of 223 families of fallen heroes and heroines are expected to attend the national event in Harare.
During the proceedings, President Emmerson Mnangagwa will present national flags to family representatives of four individuals who were recently posthumously declared National Heroes: Cde. Benjamin Burombo, Brigadier-General (Rtd.) Lameck Francisco Mutanda, Cde. John Mbedzi, and Cde. Jairos Jiri.
Turning to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day, Dr. Muswere announced that this year’s celebrations will be held on 12 August 2025 at Rufaro Stadium where Cabinet has also approved a revised theme for the commemorations, “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030.”
He said military parade rehearsals and preparations for military displays are already underway at Rufaro Stadium while a variety of entertainment groups have been lined up to perform, adding cultural flair to the national occasion.
The event will conclude with a highly anticipated soccer match between the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Select Team and the reigning Premier Soccer League champions, Simba Bhora.
Dr. Muswere also highlighted the ongoing Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day Community Assistance Week, which began on 28 July and runs until 7 August.
Meanwhile, attention is already turning to the 46th Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations, set to be held in April 2026 in Maphisa, Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.
Dr. Muswere confirmed that early preparations have commenced and that Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have been directed to fast-track all necessary infrastructure and service delivery projects in time for the national milestone.
New Ziana
