Story by Gay Matambo
THE historic and enduring revolutionary bond between Zimbabwe and Mozambique was on full display at Samora Machel Square in Chimoio, where thousands gathered to celebrate Mozambique’s 51st Independence Day this Thursday.
The provincial commemorations, marking Mozambique’s liberation from Portuguese colonial rule in 1975, assumed a strong bilateral character as dignitaries from the sister provinces of Manica and Manicaland shared the podium, underscoring the corridor of solidarity that continues to unite the two regions.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary of State for Manica Province, Honourable Lourenço Mateus Lindonde, paid tribute to the liberation icons of both nations, saying the independence being commemorated should continue to serve as a catalyst for modern economic growth and infrastructure development across the region.
“As Mozambique marks its Independence Day, the celebrations in Manica Province carry profound cross-border significance, reflecting the deep-rooted historical, cultural and economic ties shared with Zimbabwe’s Manicaland Province,” he said.
Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, said the destinies of Manicaland and Manica provinces remain closely intertwined, anchored in shared culture, lineage and a common liberation history.
“We want to thank His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for his policy, which views us as friends to all and enemies to none. Zimbabwe and Mozambique have a long-standing relationship. We are happy with this relationship, and that is why we celebrate independence with Mozambique. We are also happy to share that Zimbabwe is open for business, as our President always says. We also want to thank you for continuing to safeguard our liberation war shrines, which are in Mozambique,” he said.
Zimbabwe and Mozambique’s bilateral relations continue to serve as a foundational pillar for regional integration, with cooperation centred on security, energy infrastructure and trade corridor development.
ZANU PF Manicaland Provincial Chairperson, Cde Tawanda Mukodza, said the strong ties between the ruling parties of the two countries have strengthened economic and social relations.
“ZANU PF and FRELIMO have a long-standing relationship dating back to the liberation struggle, hence it gives us joy when we join our neighbour in celebration. The relationship has fostered strong business ties, as we see people from Manicaland coming here to do business and people from Manica conducting business in Zimbabwe as well,” he said.
Proportional Representation legislator for Mutare District, Honourable Getrude Mutandi, said such relations continue to create opportunities for trade and economic growth.
“We value such relationships, which build opportunities for trade in our country,” she said.
Beyond the official military protocols, residents of Manica Province turned out in large numbers to commemorate their country’s independence.
“We are happy that we are celebrating independence. The day means a lot to us,” said one resident.
Another resident, a war veteran, reflected on the significance of the occasion.
“As war veterans, it is a day on which we reflect on where we come from. The youth should know our history as a nation, and today we are delighted that they have also come out in large numbers to commemorate this important day,” he said.
The colourful celebrations featured military parades, civic marches and traditional cultural performances.
The commemorations come at a sombre time for Zimbabwe following the death of the country’s Ambassador to Mozambique and Eswatini, Ambassador Victor Matemadanda, earlier this week. Declared a national hero, Ambassador Matemadanda will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre this Friday.
