Story by Peter Chivhima

CHINA becomes the latest powerhouse to endorse the Museum of African Liberation after the Asian giant hoisted its flag at the construction site in Warren Park, Harare.

The story of African liberation will never be complete without mentioning the contribution of countries such as China and the then Soviet Union.

Given that background, the Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Ambassador Zhou Ding hoisted his country’s flag at the Liberation City in Harare where the Museum of African Liberation is being constructed.

Speaking after raising the Chinese national flag and planting the solidarity tree, Ambassador Zhou Ding pledged China’s support to the Museum of African Liberation.

“It is such a great pleasure and honour to be here, to visit the Museum of African Liberation. Everybody knows China and Zimbabwe share a long-term friendship that dates back to the liberation struggle so there is no doubt that China will participate in the building of this magnificent museum,” he said.

“We will find a proper way to participate and support the museum’s building and also I think Zimbabwe is doing wonderful things. Africa has a unique history and there is a need to preserve that history, especially of the liberation struggle.

“We need to let more people know about Africa’s history, Zimbabwe’s history as well as our liberation struggle. It is very important. I am also happy to learn that this museum will also provide some opportunities for younger generations for amusement and entertainment. So this is going to be most educating and entertaining, and that is why I think it is very important, we are looking forward to your success and looking forward to working with you.”

A total of 55 African countries and other friendly nations outside Africa have also endorsed the project after planting solidarity trees adjacent to their respective national flags at the Museum of African Liberation.

The museum is expected to be a key knowledge base telling the true African history from an informed position.

It is also a celebration of African luminaries such as former Mozambican President Samora Machel, and former Tanzanian leader Julius Nyerere as well Zimbabwean liberation icons like Cde Josiah Tongogara and Dr Joshua Nkomo whose artefacts are displayed in the micro-museum.