A toast to freedom
THE vibe that characterises Independence Day celebrations was revived last week as multitudes of people gathered in different places to celebrate the important event following a two-year Covid-19-induced break.
Bans on gatherings have since been relaxed as the number of local fatalities significantly declined due to the successful roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccination programme, lockdowns and other preventative measures.
However, authorities warn the war against the pandemic is far from over. While the historic national celebrations held in Bulawayo were the major attraction on April 18, this did not take away the sting in various district and provincial celebrations across the country.
This was particularly so in Macheke, which falls under Murehwa South constituency.
Members of the public erupted into song and dance immediately after President Mnangagwa’s Independence speech was read by one of the district leaders.
What was even more captivating was the sight of children, some as young as eight years old, effortlessly singing along to unity and self-rule songs.
The Sunday Mail Society interviewed one of the children who was clearly having a time of his life.
The youngster aptly imitated the late veteran musician and liberation war hero Dickson “Cde Chinx” Chingaira’s
dance moves.
“This is my first time attending Independence celebrations and I am happy to be here. I understand this is an important day in which we celebrate freedom and also remember heroes that fought for us to be free,” said 10-year-old Clever Kagoro from Dombwe.
He was not wearing a beret –one of Cde Chinx’s trademarks –but acted like he was putting on one.
“My father loves Chinx’s music and often plays it. I also love it and hope to be like him (Chinx) when I grow up.”
There were at least five different celebrations across the district.
The dance floor was kept alive for the greater part of the day, going into the night.
“The message here is simple and clear. We must unite and be happy as a country,” said a high school student who only identified herself as Tsitsi.
Businessman Tawanda Chenana donated beverages and five beasts that were part of the many slaughtered in each district during the celebrations.
“I travelled to Macheke to celebrate Independence Day with others. This is an important day.
“I donated some cattle as a way of showing my love for the country and thanking the people that attended my mother’s memorial service, particularly the liberation war heroes that worked with her during the struggle.
“Their presence showed me the unity and love we have in this district. This was my little way of thanking
them, including many others that fought for the freedom we enjoy today,” he said.
One of the participants of the liberation war, Gibson Musanga, said he was pleased with the involvement of youths in national programmes.
“Most of us are now old. However, we are happy that we have youths that are showing great patriotism. Zimbabwe is a heritage that we are going to pass on to the new generation in due course,” notes Musanga.
“I’m happy people of different age groups have gathered to celebrate Independence. I’m happy to see more youths. They are the future leaders and must value such important days,” added his colleague Godwin Marichoro.