By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Relatives of fallen liberation fighters in Beitbridge have hailed the 45th National Heroes Day commemorations as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to secure Zimbabwe’s freedom.
The event, held at the Beitbridge Heroes Acre in Makakavhule Cemetery, drew war veterans, widows, community leaders, and government officials for a day of remembrance, celebration, and renewed commitment to nation-building.
The commemorations were filled with colour and culture, with entertainment from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) band alongside traditional music and dance groups. Presentations from war veterans and widows added emotional depth to the day.
Speaking on behalf of the President, District Development Coordinator Sikhangezile Mafu-Moyo honoured the fallen and living heroes for their selfless contributions to the liberation struggle.
“Theirs was a selfless struggle for the freedom we enjoy today, that must forever remain engraved in our collective conscience,” she said.
She called on citizens to play an active role in development, echoing the President’s words: “Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatiwa nevene vayo” a call to safeguard the sovereignty and prosperity that so many fought for.
“We must resolutely guard our sovereignty and work to build a prosperous economy in line with Vision 2030,” she added, noting that the Second Republic is spearheading projects nationwide to honour the sacrifices of liberation heroes.
War veterans’ representative Cde Showa Moyo praised the government for dedicating the day to honouring liberation fighters and initiating empowerment schemes for veterans.
“We are so grateful that the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs has launched the Documentation and Memorialization of our struggle so our true history is told from a first-person narrative,” he said.
Moyo also welcomed efforts to identify shallow graves for proper burials and urged young people to avoid drug abuse, remain patriotic, and safeguard the country’s independence.
For many families, the day was deeply personal. Gilbert Mbedzi, relative of the late hero Michael Mbedzi, laid to rest at Makakavhule, said the event was a dignified tribute.
“Michael’s bravery and dedication will always be part of Beitbridge’s proud story. Days like this remind us why we must protect what they fought for.”
Sarina Siziba, sister to the late Cde Thilibali Siziba, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“My brother’s name lives on, not just in our family, but in the history of our country. This day means everything to us.”
Daughter to the late Cde Lisa Singo also reflected on the meaning of the commemorations.
“I grew up hearing stories of my mother’s courage. To see her remembered here today makes me proud and pushes me to live up to her example.”
As the ceremony closed with a solemn moment of silence, the message from both leaders and families was clear, Zimbabwe’s independence came at a great cost, and it is now the responsibility of all citizens to guard it and work together for a brighter future.