Source: Independence Flame arrives in Gwanda – herald
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke and Thupeyo Muleya
THE Independence Flame will arrive in Gwanda today from Beitbridge as it continues to weave its way through communities ahead of the main Uhuru commemorations in Maphisa district, Matabeleland South province.
Its route from Beitbridge through Gwanda, Insiza, Umzingwane, Bulilima and Mangwe, before arrival in Matobo is considered deeply symbolic.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Albert Nguluvhe said the route was reminiscent of “the long and difficult journey that led to the birth of our sovereign nation in 1980”.
“As it begins its journey here in Zezani, this flame becomes a living testament to our shared history and collective identity as Zimbabweans,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“Matabeleland South province is deeply honoured to host this important national programme.
“Our province holds a rich and proud liberation history, and the route that the Independence Flame will take – from Beitbridge through Gwanda, Insiza, Umzingwane, Bulilima and Mangwe, before culminating in Matobo – reflects the depth of that history and the significant role played by our communities in the struggle for independence. This journey of the flame is not just ceremonial; it is symbolic of inclusivity, unity and national cohesion.
“It embodies the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no place and no community is left behind in the national development agenda.
“Each district along this route represents a vital thread in the fabric of our nation’s liberation story.”
He also called upon all people across Matabeleland South and beyond to come out in their numbers to witness and participate in this historic relay of the Independence Flame.
As the flame advances towards its final destination, it is stirring excitement and pride in Maphisa, the rural Matobo district community preparing to host the nation.
Once characterised by dusty roads and limited economic activity, Maphisa is shedding its old image.
Where gravel and neglect once defined the landscape, stretches of smooth tar now cut through the area, complemented by upgraded public facilities and growing business activity.
While the excitement continues to grow, preparations for the main event have reached an advanced stage, with the authorities finalising logistics for what is expected to be one of the largest national gatherings of the year.
More than 70 000 people are expected to attend the celebrations in Maphisa this week.
Local Government and Public Works director of communications and advocacy Mr Gabriel Masvora said the authorities were satisfied with the level of preparedness.
“In terms of logistics, all is ready.
“We are expecting more than 70 000 people for the main Independence Day celebrations, with the majority coming from Matabeleland South, which is the host province,” he said.
To facilitate travel, the Government has mobilised 328 buses nationwide.
“Of these, 120 have been allocated to the host province, while the remainder will ferry people from other provinces.”
Beyond infrastructure, a comprehensive multi-agency preparedness and response framework has been activated to ensure smooth and safe celebrations.
The Department of Civil Protection is coordinating efforts, alongside the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, emergency medical service providers and fire brigades.
“We have a comprehensive civil protection framework in place, which includes heightened road safety enforcement, deployment of emergency services and real-time coordination among all stakeholders to ensure that the celebrations are incident-free,” he said.
Emergency response systems have been strengthened, with ambulances, tow trucks and fire tenders deployed along major highways leading to Maphisa.
Health facilities along these routes have been placed on high alert, with supplies prepositioned and personnel on standby.
An on-site command centre will oversee operations, supported by additional command posts in Bulawayo and Gwanda, with helicopters available for rapid response, including air evacuation in critical cases.
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