Story by Aifheli Mudau
VICE President Colonel (Retired) Dr Kembo Mohadi has reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to preserving and upgrading liberation heritage sites across the region as the country honours the sacrifices made by fighters who died during the struggle for independence.
The Vice President made the remarks in Luangwa District, where he joined Zambian government officials and liberation war veterans for the Kavalamanja and Kakaro commemorations. The events honour gallant fighters from both Zimbabwe and Zambia who were killed during the March 1978 attacks at the two historic battle sites.
Upon arrival at the Kavalamanja battle site, Vice President Mohadi, accompanied by Ambrose Lufuma and Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Zambia Charity Charamba, toured sections of the liberation heritage site alongside senior government officials.
He later laid wreaths at the Kavalamanja cenotaph before addressing the gathering.
Vice President Mohadi said the commemorations stand as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the people of Zambia in supporting Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“Our gathering here today serves as a reminder of the immense sacrifice made by the people of the Republic of Zambia for the liberation of Zimbabwe. These sacrifices laid the foundation for the peace and progress we enjoy today. Surely, we are grateful to Zambia for its courage in the face of adversity,” he said.
He noted that the Second Republic remains steadfast in preserving the memories of the Kavalamanja and Kakaro battles and ensuring that liberation heritage sites continue to be protected for future generations.
Vice President Mohadi also commended the Zambian government under President Hakainde Hichilema for continuing to honour the historic events that shaped the region’s liberation struggle.
“These commemorations are always a moment of deep reflection for Zimbabweans. They remind us of the immense sacrifices made by the people of Zambia to ensure the emancipation of Southern Africa,” he added.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Lufuma emphasised the importance of safeguarding the historic battle sites as enduring symbols of shared sacrifice between the two nations.
“These commemorations stand as an enduring reminder to those who will come after us that these sites remain important to both countries,” he said.
Speaking at the conclusion of his visit, Vice President Mohadi said Zimbabwe will continue working closely with Zambia to maintain and upgrade liberation heritage sites across the region.
“Most of the liberation shrines are here in Zambia, which shows how much Zambia suffered for the liberation of Southern Africa. We lost many people here, and we will continue working with the Zambian government to ensure these shrines are properly maintained,” he said.
The Kavalamanja and Kakaro commemorations come as Zimbabwe prepares to mark its 46th Independence anniversary next month under the theme Zim@46: Unity and Development towards Vision 2030.
