Zimbabwe today marked the 44th Heroes Day with a national ceremony led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who honored the nation’s liberation fighters and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national development. The event was a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to free Zimbabwe from colonial rule and a reflection on the progress made under the Second Republic.
President Mnangagwa emphasized the significance of the sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes, stating that their courage and dedication continue to inspire the country’s pursuit of independence and sovereignty. Despite facing challenges such as illegal sanctions and climate-induced shocks, Zimbabwe’s economy has shown resilience, with positive growth and progress in various sectors.
The President highlighted the ongoing success in agriculture, noting a record winter wheat cropping season and preparations for the upcoming summer cropping season. He also underscored the importance of social protection programs aimed at ensuring food security and supporting vulnerable communities.
In the mining sector, President Mnangagwa called for increased value addition and beneficiation of minerals, aligning with the goals of national economic empowerment. The energy sector has also seen significant advancements, with the expansion of Hwange Power Station and the development of solar projects expected to boost the country’s power supply.
The President acknowledged the growth of the manufacturing sector, particularly in value addition and job creation, and commended the role of micro, small, and medium enterprises in driving economic empowerment and community development. He announced that the government will soon conduct a comprehensive skills audit to enhance productivity and competitiveness across various sectors.
Infrastructure development remains a key priority for the government, with significant progress in upgrading roads, bridges, and border posts. The President also highlighted efforts to provide decent housing and improve rural infrastructure through the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency.
In education, the government continues to prioritize access to quality education and the promotion of innovation among students. The Youth Service Training Programme was relaunched earlier this year to instill patriotism and loyalty among the youth, with training centers being modernized to equip them with the skills needed for national development.
As part of its commitment to a robust healthcare system, the government has equipped the majority of district hospitals with fully functional operating theatres and is focused on combating drug and substance abuse through various initiatives.
President Mnangagwa also spoke on the importance of preserving the nation’s liberation heritage, with ongoing efforts to document and memorialize the history of the liberation struggle. This includes the repatriation and reburial of veterans who remain in unmarked graves, both within and outside the country.
As Zimbabwe prepares to host the upcoming SADC Summit, President Mnangagwa reiterated the country’s commitment to regional cooperation and diplomacy. He urged citizens to continue upholding the values of unity and peace, which are central to Zimbabwe’s identity and progress.
In conclusion, President Mnangagwa called on all Zimbabweans to honor the legacy of the nation’s heroes by contributing to the country’s ongoing development and working towards a prosperous future for all. The day’s celebrations included the conferment of medals to over 180,000 veterans and the recognition of individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the nation.
