By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
ZMBABWE’s 46th Independence Day celebrations, at Maphisa in Matobo District, placed strong emphasis on honouring the legacy of Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, one of the country’s foremost liberation icons.
Nkomo hailed from Matobo where Maphisa Growth Point is.
Host Minister Albert Nguluvhe told Ziyah News Network the venue was deliberately chosen to recognise Nkomo, whose life was dedicated to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“We realised that Matabeleland South has many people who contributed to the liberation, and one who was at the forefront was Dr Nkomo, who came from the Kezi area in Matobo District. In recognition of him, we decided to bring the celebrations here as a reminder to the nation where this great man came from,” he said.
Nguluvhe also commended the President Emmerson Mnangagwa for promoting the rotation of Independence celebrations across provinces, describing it as a fitting way to honour national heroes and leaving no place behind.
Addressing the crowd in Kezi, President Mnangagwa highlighted Matabeleland South as a province that produced many distinguished liberation figures.
He paid tribute to Dr Nkomo—affectionately known as “Father Zimbabwe”—alongside other national heroes such as Alfred Nikita Mangena, Lookout Masuku, George Silundika, Steven Jeqe Nkomo, and Simon Khaya Moyo.
He praised their patriotism and sacrifices, describing them as a lasting source of inspiration for the nation.
The celebrations also featured performances by members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS), who staged a symbolic act depicting the life and contributions of Dr Nkomo.
Delegates appreciated the Second Republic for awarding Matabeleland South the opportunity to host the national event.
Many highlighted the lasting benefits, including infrastructure development projects such as upgraded schools, hospitals, and housing initiatives.
War veteran and former chairperson Andy Mhlanga reflected on the liberation struggle, noting the importance of recognising former fighters:
“Seeing comrades being honoured with modern, solar-powered homes fills us with pride. It shows that the President values the liberation heritage and the welfare of those who fought for this freedom.”
Traditional leader David Mbedzi who is the current paramount chief Tshitaudze in Beitbridge also welcomed the event, saying the improvements in infrastructure would have long-term benefits for the community.
ZANU PF Politburo Member and Secretary for Business Development, Cde Eliphas Mashava, applauded the Second Republic’s development agenda, saying tangible improvements in the province.
“The policy of devolution is clearly visible here in Maphisa. Bringing these national celebrations to rural districts is not just about the event, but about the permanent infrastructure such as roads and housing that empower local businesses and stimulate the provincial economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Gapare, director of Alpha International Land Developers, expressed interest in investing in Maphisa in honour of Nkomo.
Gapare said the area presents an opportunity to combine historical preservation with modern development in line with national goals.
“Maphisa presents an opportunity to blend historical significance with modern infrastructure while honouring Nkomo’s legacy,” he said.
The 46th Independence Day celebrations in Kezi not only honoured the enduring legacy of Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, but also reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to remembering its liberation history while driving forward development.
For the people of Matabeleland South, the event was both a moment of pride and a symbol of progress blending tribute with tangible gains that will benefit communities for years to come.