Story by Farai Gwaze
ZIMBABWE and Cuba on Wednesday reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral relations during commemorations marking the 173rd anniversary of Cuban national hero José Martí, with reflections centred on shared liberation values, historical solidarity and enduring cooperation.
The event, held in Harare, brought together diplomats, academics, civil society organisations and friendship associations, who underscored the depth of relations forged during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and sustained through decades of political, educational and medical cooperation.
Speakers noted that Cuba’s support for African liberation movements, including Zimbabwe’s, extended beyond political solidarity to practical assistance in areas such as health and human capital development.
“Cuba was very much a part of our liberation struggle. Cuba was also the country that provided a base for the training of various medical personnel,” Zimbabwe Cuba Friendship Association, Former Chairperson, Professor Chakanyuka Karase said.
“We are here to commemorate the history of Jose Marti, a hero in Cuba who fought for the independence of Cuba from Spain. We are also commemorating the resilience of Cuba from the pressure they’ve gotten since 1960,” Citizens Against Economic Sanctions, Executive Director, Martin Zharare said.
Cuban Ambassador to Zimbabwe Her Excellency Susellys Perez Mesa, highlighted the importance of safeguarding the territorial integrity and sovereignty of a nation.
“We are celebrating the 173rd birthday of José Martí, our national hero. He was a poet, writer and diplomat, but mainly a great man who fought for the independence of Cuba. We are here today to remember him and build on his legacy, especially nowadays as we face a lot of challenges and the international community needs to keep alive,” Ambassador Mesa said.
The role played by Jose Marti for the people of Cuba speaks to the spirit of relations between Cuba and Zimbabwe’s revolutionary movements, fostering what we now see as the progression of these two nations.
