Harare, (New Ziana) –Zimbabwe is set to mark the Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day in grand style this August, with the government unveiling an extensive program of commemorations and awards aimed at honouring national heroes, veterans of the liberation struggle, and ordinary citizens who have made remarkable contributions to the country.
Heroes Day commemorations will take place on Monday, 11 August this year, with the main event being held at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, while provincial ceremonies will run concurrently across the country with preparations already underway, and 222 families of heroes and heroines expected to attend the main event.
Addressing the media during the Tuesday post-Cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said the commemorations will serve not only as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle, but also as a celebration of courage, patriotism, and national unity.
“Cabinet has approved the update on preparations for the 2025 Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day commemorations. We are preparing to honour our heroes, past and present, who have contributed to the Zimbabwe we know today,” he said.
The following day, Tuesday, 12 August, the country will celebrate Defence Forces Day at Rufaro Stadium, under the theme: “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for the Attainment of Vision 2030.”
The day will feature a packed program including a military parade, displays, entertainment from selected performers, and a highlight football match between the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Select Team and a regional Select.
As part of the celebrations, the government will confer honours and awards on individuals whose outstanding acts of service embody the values of patriotism, bravery, and national development.
This year the shortlist of awardees includes, Dr Vladimir Shubin, a former head of the Africa Section of the Soviet Afro-Asian Solidarity Committee, who will be awarded the prestigious Royal Order of Munhumutapa for his international solidarity efforts during the liberation struggle.
Chidhudhu Innocent, a teenager from Bindura who heroically rescued two children from a house fire, will receive the Silver Cross of Zimbabwe, a recognition reserved for acts of conspicuous courage.
Dr Madeline Nyamwanza, the first African female medical doctor in Zimbabwe, will be honoured with the Robert Gabriel Mugabe Commendation Award for Service in Human Capital Development, in recognition of her groundbreaking contribution to health and education.
“These honours reflect our commitment to acknowledging not just our war veterans, but also civilians, young and old, who embody the spirit of Zimbabwean heroism,” Muswere said.
In addition, the government will award Independence Medals to 2 000 eligible Veterans of the Liberation Struggle, through provincial Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
The initiative, Muswere noted, seeks to formally recognise the sacrifices made during the country’s fight for freedom.
Also in line for recognition are civil servants who have rendered distinguished service, with awards to be gazetted and issued in phases, ensuring that their long-standing contributions are not overlooked.
New Ziana
