War vets leave for annual visit to Zambia camps
MAQHAWE’SIZWE Entourage Trust, made up of former freedom fighters, will once again travel to Zambia for their annual visit to former war camps as part of Heroes’ Day Commemorations.
The entourage leaves from the Bulawayo City Hall at 8AM tomorrow.
The organisation’s chairperson, Cde Onesmus Bhebhe, said they are inviting members of the public to join them as they embark on the journey to pay tribute to the liberation fighters who died during the war of liberation.
“We are inviting people to join us in the journey as we go to Zambia, this is a way of reminding the living about the ex-combatants who fought for our freedom,” said Cde Bhebhe.
He said everyone is welcome to join them regardless of which party they belong to adding that what is important is for people to come together to pay their respect to the freedom fighters.
Cde Lehlohonolo Mokoena, the organising secretary, emphasised the importance of people travelling to Zambia, especially young people so that they can get first-hand information from those who went to war.
“We are an open organisation, we invite every Zimbabwean to join us on this journey especially young people so that they can learn more about the liberation struggle,” said Cde Mokoena.
He said the organisation informs concerned entities like the Home Affairs Ministry, war veterans, the President’s Office and even the Zambian Embassy every time they embark on the annual pilgrimage.
Cde Bhebhe said those wishing to travel to Zambia will pay $100 each, which will cover accommodation, food and transport.
He said the six day tour will take the group to former war camps such as Nampundwe, Freedom and Mkushi camps.
The entourage lays wreaths, prays and even get narrations about past events.
Cde Bhebhe said the group can locate some of the graves of the former liberation fighters who died during the war, hence it is important for people who lost their loved ones to join them so that they can see the graves of their departed relatives.