By Patience Gondo
THE Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe, has applauded the business community in Matabeleland, Manicaland and the Midlands for their overwhelming support towards Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations.
He said their contribution was critical to the success of the national event in reerence to Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence anniversary celebrations in his province.
Nguluvhe told Ziyah News Network on Monday he was also pleasantly surprised by the strong presence of businesspeople who attended the commemorations held in Maphisa on Saturday.
In particular he mentioned the presence of Beitbridge businesspeople at the national event was heart-warming.
“I was not fully expecting such a turnout, but upon seeing business people in Maphisa, I was really happy,” he said highlighting the significance of private sector participation in national events.
Nguluvhe said he was grateful to businesses from across the country, saying their contributions went beyond attendance, extending to tangible support that ensured the smooth running of the celebrations.
He said stakeholders from Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Manicaland and the Midlands for their role in mobilising resources.
The minister said companies and individuals donated essential supplies including mealie meal, relish, groceries and fuel used in the build-up to and during the independence festivities.
“Of course, the Government played a big part, but I would really want to appreciate business people, particularly in Matabeleland South, for contributing to the success of the Independence celebrations,” he said.
Nguluvhe also clarified the broader hosting framework of the event, saying while activities were held in Maphisa, the responsibility extended beyond a single district.
“As leadership, we agreed that it is not Matobo District hosting, but Matabeleland South Province as a whole. That is why legacy projects were implemented across the province,” he said.
He said all projects started under the programme would be be completed and that includes the completion in surfacing Gwanda and Bulawayo to Maphisa roads.
The Independence Day celebrations, which drew thousands of people, have been widely viewed as a unifying national event, with both government and private sector collaboration playing a central role in delivering a successful programme.