Source: Independence Flame begins journey to Maphisa – herald
Remember Deketeke
Herald Correspondent
THE Independence Flame, which was first lit on April 17, 1980, was yesterday rekindled as it begins its journey to Maphisa, the venue of this year’s Uhuru celebrations.
The flame made its first stop in Masvingo yesterday, passing through Zvishavane, and is expected to arrive in Zezani, Beitbridge, this morning.
The symbolic flame, which embodies Zimbabwe’s hard-won independence, is being taken across various districts as part of efforts to engage communities and honour the sacrifices of liberation heroes.
From Zezane, the flame is expected to pass through different places in the districts of Gwanda, Insiza, Umzingwane, Bulilima and Mangwe before the April 17 Independence eve flame lighting ceremony at Ratanyana, in Matobo, to be presided by Vice President Kembo Mohadi.
Athletes will then bring the flame to the venue of the Independence Day celebrations on April 18.
Curator of Liberation Heritage in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Ms Rumbidzai Bvira, said the flame carries deep historical and national significance.
“The Independence Flame was first lit on April 17, 1980, on the eve of Zimbabwe’s independence, and it has remained a powerful symbol of our nationhood and sovereignty,” she said.
“It represents the courage, unity and sacrifice demonstrated by those who fought for the liberation of this country. As it moves across the country, it reminds us that Zimbabwe is alive and that the spirit of independence continues to burn brightly.”
This year’s hosting of the national commemorations in Matabeleland South reflects the Government’s deliberate decentralisation policy under the Second Republic, which rotates major national events across provinces to accelerate infrastructure development and stimulate local economic activity in historically marginalised areas.
The flame, travelling from Harare and accompanied by roadshows, arrives as a visible symbol of national unity and the Second Republic’s decentralisation drive.
Critical infrastructure at the main venue, including the football pitch, terracing, drainage systems, ablution facilities and perimeter works, is already in place ahead of the national event.
In Maphisa, a modern multi-purpose stadium has rapidly emerged from what was previously undeveloped bushland. Extensive earthworks, bulk excavation and ground levelling have transformed the uneven, hilly terrain into a standardised pitch complete with a surrounding track.
The venue will accommodate at least 5 000 people on terraces, with additional capacity expected through tented extensions. Key support infrastructure such as parking bays, changing rooms, VIP facilities and full perimeter fencing has already been completed.
Ms Bvira said this year’s programme will see the flame travelling through several districts, allowing communities to interact with it while also participating in educational and cultural exchanges.
“From Harare, we are proceeding to Masvingo, where the flame will be received at Zezani in Matabeleland South before continuing to other parts of the country as part of the 2026 Independence Day commemorations,” she said.
“This journey will take us up to April 17, with various districts hosting the flame and engaging in activities that promote national unity and shared heritage.”
She added that the outreach programme provides an opportunity for communities to reflect on the country’s history while also engaging with other nations and stakeholders.
“Our people will be able to interact, learn and exchange ideas with different communities, including those beyond our borders, as we strengthen relations and share our liberation history,” said Ms Bvira.
Ms Bvira said the Independence Flame is not only a historical symbol, but also a call to action for present and future generations.
“Yesterday, we said the same courage, sacrifice and unity shown by the liberation fighters must guide us as we take up the responsibility of building Zimbabwe for future generations,” she said.
“As the flame continues its journey, it is a reminder that the responsibility to safeguard and develop our nation lies with all of us.”
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