Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
MASVINGO Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, has urged communities to embrace unity, productivity and collective responsibility as Zimbabwe enters 2026, a year he said marks a critical phase in the implementation of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
Speaking during New Year celebrations held at Mabhugu Primary School in Gutu on Thursday, Honourable Chadzamira said national development can only be achieved through cooperation, discipline and sustained hard work at community level.
“We are happy to celebrate the New Year as one people here in Gutu. The year 2026 is important for Zimbabwe as it marks the beginning of NDS2 towards the attainment of Vision 2030. Let us continue working together to develop our communities,” he said.
The event drew villagers, Government officials and ZANU PF party members from across the district and beyond, as communities gathered to usher in the New Year in a show of unity and social cohesion.
The annual celebrations are hosted by the Minister of State for National Security, Honourable Lovemore Matuke, and have become a key platform for promoting peace, unity and collective reflection on community development priorities.
Honourable Matuke said the gathering, which began as a family event more than four decades ago, has evolved into a major community occasion that brings people together around shared values of peace and cooperation.
“We are happy to continue hosting this event, which we started 40 years ago as a family function. It has since grown to bring together the entire Gutu community. We use this occasion to preach peace, unity and the spirit of working together towards improved livelihoods, as encouraged by our President, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa,” he said.
ZANU PF Masvingo Provincial Chairperson, Senator Robson Mavhenyengwa, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to supporting Government development programmes under NDS2.
“As a party, under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, we will ensure full participation in all development programmes implemented under NDS2 so that Vision 2030 is successfully attained,” he said.
Community members welcomed the celebrations, describing them as a unifying platform that strengthens social bonds and cooperation.
“This programme brings us together to celebrate the New Year, and that alone fosters the spirit of unity and working together as a community. We also enjoyed entertainment provided,” one resident said.
The celebrations featured performances by gospel musician Dorcas Moyo, Chief Hwenje and The Cheso Boys, with festivities continuing into Friday morning.
