By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
THE Independence Flame roadshow lit up Beitbridge on Saturday , drawing communities together in a vibrant display of patriotism and remembrance as the flame made its way through key parts of the border town.
The procession, which began at ZRP Beitbridge, passed through several institutions and suburbs including the District Development Coordinator’s office, RDC, Social Welfare, MOB, the Border Post, Mashakada, Mbedzi, Mangavha, White Lodge, and Lutumba before proceeding to Malala.
The roadshow follows the official lighting of the Independence Flame on Friday by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga at Zezani Assembly Point, marking the start of its journey across Matabeleland South province.
The flame is expected to travel across the province’s seven districts before culminating at the national Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa Growth Point.
Speaking during the event at Lutumba, Rumbidzai Bvira from the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe educated residents on the significance of the Independence Flame.
“The flame represents the freedom of Zimbabwe and the sacrifices made by the country’s sons and daughters during the liberation struggle. It reminds us of our heroes and the unity that carried us through the fight for independence,” she said.
Ziyah News Network also spoke to Central Committee member and former Beitbridge West legislator, Mrs Metrini Mudau, who expressed pride in the district hosting the flame.
“We feel uplifted as Beitbridge and Matabeleland South for having the flame in our community. Hosting Independence celebrations reflects the President’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind. It gives our people a sense of belonging,” she said.
Mudau said the Independence brought tangible development to communities.
“Through independence, we gained freedom and now have our own schools and hospitals. The flame reminds us of the work done by those who fought for our liberation some of whom perished in Zambia and Mozambique, with others yet to be accounted for.”
Beitbridge RDC Council Chairperson, Oscar Chiromo, said the event would be etched in the district’s history.
“We used to see the flame lighting ceremonies taking place in Harare, but today it is here in Beitbridge. This is a moment that will remain in our history books,” he said.
Chiromo also used the platform to urge young people to shun drug abuse.
“Freedom would not have been achieved if those who fought for it were abusing drugs. The youth must stay away from drugs, focus on education, and uphold the pride of Zimbabwe,” he added.
Echoing similar sentiments, Ward 5 Councillor Rabson Mbedzi of Beitbridge East applauded the Second Republic for bringing the initiative closer to the people.
“This programme is a powerful reminder of our shared history and a commendable effort by the Second Republic to ensure national events are inclusive and reach every corner of the country,” he said.
The Independence Flame roadshow continues to spark unity and reflection as it moves across the province, carrying with it the enduring legacy of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.