Story by Oleen Ndori, Foreign Editor
African diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe have welcomed the monument in honour of Mozambique’s founding father, Samora Machel at the Museum of African Liberation, saying the institution will play a key role in telling the story of the struggle for independence.
The vision and hope of telling Africa’s story of the struggle for independence, the end of colonialism and future hope gave birth to the Museum of African Liberation, whose construction is underway in Harare.
For African diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe, the museum presents an opportunity not only to unite Africa in documenting its history but to chart a new course for future generations.
“This Liberation city and the museum, in particular, is so vital in telling g our story of the past and what we want for the future,” said Malawian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr Pole Pole.
“We applaud Zimbabwe for this step it has taken, a bold one to speak and tell our story as neighbours we promise to continue supporting Zimbabwe in this initiative,” stated Botswana Ambassador to Zimbabwe His Excellency Mrs Sarah Sithabile Molosiwa.
“My country was among the first to gain independence and the home of pushing for Africa’s independence and we don’t have such a structure. What Zimbabwe has done is impressive and as we continue to push for an end to Neo colonialism this museum is a key stepping stone,” asserted Ghana Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr Alexander Ntrakwa.
Egypt Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mrs Salwa Mowafi added, “This monument reminds me of our founding Presidents who pushed for the formation of the then OAU and as Africa Day gets closer, we are reminded of the past for the future.”
“We remember the late Kaunda and this museum will tell of their stories and their hopes for Africa,” Zambia Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr Derick Livune.
Institute of African Knowledge (INSTAK) Board Chairperson, Professor Simbi Mubako believes the museum is a unique opportunity for educational and cultural diplomatic cooperation among African countries.
“We remember the iconic Samora Machel and the role he played in liberating SADC and Africa,” he said.
A sculpture titled: ‘Endless Connections,’ by Innocent Nyashega was also handed over to President Filipe Nyusi at the construction site of the Samora Machel monument, signalling unending support and relations among the people of Africa as represented by the liberation city.
