Story by Wadzanai Mandima
A delegation from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has visited the Chimoio Liberation Shrine in Mozambique in a symbolic reaffirmation of Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage and the values that underpin national development.
Led by the Minister of Energy and Power Development, Honourable July Moyo, the visit brought together REA board members, management and staff, with the aim of reconnecting institutional leadership to the country’s liberation history and the sacrifices that laid the foundation for independence.
The Chimoio Shrine, one of the most significant sites of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, serves as a reminder of the selflessness, discipline and commitment that characterised the fight against colonial rule.
Tour guide Cde July Badza, a facilitator at the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology, said such visits play a critical role in correcting historical distortions and reinforcing national consciousness.
“At the time of colonisation our mindset was changed by the whites. The people who have come here have seen for themselves that this country did not come on a silver platter,” he said.
REA Board Chairperson, Cecilia Chitiyo spoke on the significance of the Chimoio visit in strengthening patriotic consciousness among participants.
“We had the opportunity to see where the country came from, and it has taught us to be patriotic,” she said.
REA Acting CEO Felista Makumbinde underscored the importance of historical awareness in leadership and decision-making.
“When you don’t know your history, you are bound to make wrong decisions. This experience aligns us with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s mantra, ‘Nyika inotongwa nevene vayo,” she said.
Addressing the delegation, Honourable Moyo said the Chimoio tour provides inspiration for REA’s mission to transform rural communities through electrification.
“We came here to get the inspiration and background of why we are doing this rural transformation,” he said.
The initiative also reflects the national development thrust of leaving no place and no community behind, ensuring that the supreme sacrifices of liberation war heroes and heroines are remembered and honoured through inclusive development.
