Story by Courage Bushe
THE Zvishavane community has welcomed the government’s decision to decentralise Independence Day celebrations, with the district set to host this year’s provincial event.
Across Midlands Province, stakeholders have praised the move by President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, describing it as a forward-thinking approach that allows both provinces and districts to actively participate in hosting national commemorations.
The decentralisation initiative is expected to promote inclusive development and ensure that more communities benefit from hosting such significant national events. This comes as Zvishavane prepares to host the Midlands Provincial celebrations.
“We are happy as the Zvishavane community for hosting these first-ever provincial celebrations. We used to go to Gweru for the past four decades, but this time around, we have been afforded a chance to host this big event,” a resident said.
“Prior to this decentralisation approach, there was stagnancy in terms of development. Following the inception of the Second Republic, we have tangible projects that are changing lives in our district, and these include the opening of new passport offices and new affordable houses for all, among other provisions. This is a welcome development that we embrace with both hands,” a citizen said.
Government is confident that the event will bring substantial infrastructural development to the district, promoting inclusive development and growth.
“The Midlands Province appreciates President Dr Mnangagwa’s profound and bold decision to decentralise Independence Day celebrations to provinces in line with the Second Republic’s Devolution and Decentralisation Policy. This year’s provincial celebrations will be hosted at Mandava Stadium, and we are ready for the event,” Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Owen Ncube said.
This year’s 46th national Independence Day celebrations will be held in Matabeleland South in Maphisa under the theme: ‘Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030.’
