By Patience Gondo
AUTHORITIES have released travel and security guidelines ahead of the Independence Day celebrations to be held at Maphisa Stadium, urging the public to follow all instructions.
According to the official travel notice, motorists and buses travelling from provinces including Mashonaland East, Masvingo, Manicaland and parts of the Midlands, as well as those using the Masvingo–Zvishavane–Mbalabala Road, will be required to use the Zvishavane–Mbalabala–Gwanda–Maphisa route.
The route has been identified as shorter by approximately 65 kilometres and less congested, easing traffic flow into the host area.
Traffic management authorities outlined that vehicles without invitation cards will be redirected upon arrival in Maphisa.
Buses, lorries and kombis, along with private and government vehicles without accreditation, will be channelled through Sun Yat Sen Road.
In contrast, vehicles carrying invited guests, including government officials, will access the venue via St Joseph Road.
Officials also confirmed that checkpoints will be mounted along key access roads to enforce compliance and assist travellers. Attendees have been advised to carry their invitation cards at all times to avoid delays at security points.
A strict list of prohibited items and conduct has also been issued.
Members of the public have been warned against wearing party regalia or all-black clothing, bringing unregistered vehicles, carrying sharp objects or weapons and transporting alcohol, drugs, stationery materials or makeup kits into the venue.
The hosting of the national Independence celebrations at Maphisa Stadium is being framed by government not merely as an administrative decision, but as part of a broader political and developmental thrust to decentralise national events.
Authorities say the move reflects a deliberate effort to ensure that the gains of independence are visible and experienced across all provinces.
The decision aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s development mantra of “leaving no place and no one behind,” which emphasises inclusive growth and equitable distribution of national resources.
Since independence, Matabeleland South has recorded notable developments attributed to this policy direction, including the construction of 40 science laboratories in schools across the province.
Officials say such projects are part of a wider legacy aimed at improving education infrastructure and fostering long-term regional development.