Source: Record crowd and colourful scenes mark Uhuru celebrations – herald
Gibson Mhaka in MAPHISA
MORE than 50 000 people yesterday thronged Maphisa Stadium in Matobo district, Matabeleland South province, for Zimbabwe’s 46th main Independence Day celebrations, in a historic event that combined a bumper crowd with a vibrant display of national unity and pride.
Thousands of people began arriving as early as 5am, transforming the usually quiet Maphisa Growth Point into a hive of activity.
By around 8am, long queues stretching for several kilometres had formed as people waited to gain entry into the venue.
Vehicles were parked more than one-and-a-half kilometres away as space closer to the stadium quickly filled up due to the huge turnout.
Some people who could not gain entry into the stadium were left watching proceedings from outside the venue.
President Mnangagwa presided over the celebrations and was accompanied by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, Vice Presidents Dr Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Cabinet ministers and senior Government officials.
In a show of national unity, leaders from across the political divide also attended the commemorations, among them Bulawayo Mayor Senator David Coltart, Senator Nonhlanhla Mlotshwa of Matabeleland South province — who is also associated with the CCC and is the chief whip of the opposition — Senator Sam Chapfudza and MP Surrender Kapoikilu of Bulawayo Central constituency.
“I’m so pleased to be so close to the birthplace of the late Vice President Joshua Nkomo and to celebrate our 46th birthday. This is a national event. We all celebrate the independence of our nation from colonial rule, and we look forward to a bright future, that is why I am here — to demonstrate my commitment to my nation,” said Sen Coltart.
Senator Mlotshwa added: “As a member of the opposition from Matobo district, I am pleased to participate in this year’s main Independence Day celebrations.
“We have witnessed significant developments across the province, and we are happy to be here in Maphisa. As the opposition, we welcome the Government’s policy of decentralising national events; it brings tangible development to hosting districts and provinces, as we have seen here in Matabeleland South.”
Organisers were compelled to open additional entry points to ease congestion as the crowd continued to swell.
The commemorations officially began with the grand arrival of President Mnangagwa, who received a rousing welcome and standing ovation from the massive crowd, with chants and cheers echoing across the venue.
The President then inspected a guard of honour mounted by members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, before lighting the Independence Flame — a symbolic act signifying the country’s enduring freedom, unity and sovereignty.
The crowd was later treated to impressive drills by members of the uniformed forces, whose synchronised displays, simulated operations and musical performances captivated spectators throughout the day.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the celebrations were marked by a colourful and lively atmosphere, with people from all corners of the country turning Maphisa into a vibrant showcase of Zimbabwean identity.
Many attendees donned outfits in the national colours — red, yellow, green, black and white — while others wore the national dress, adding elegance and cultural significance to the occasion.
Singing, ululations and cheers created an electric atmosphere, reflecting a strong sense of belonging and shared national pride.
The excitement reached a crescendo as President Mnangagwa’s motorcade entered the arena, with thousands breaking into chants of “ED! ED!” and loud applause, many witnessing such a spectacle for the first time.
Phones were raised as voices filled the stadium.
For a moment, Maphisa stood still, soaking in the historic moment.
“This is something we have never seen before. It means so much that the President came here to celebrate with us,” said one resident.
“It makes us feel like we truly belong and are part of Zimbabwe in every way.”
Security forces added further excitement with high-energy displays, including precision drills and simulated combat scenarios, while the ZRP Canine Unit emerged as a crowd favourite with its skilful and entertaining routines.
For some, the celebrations were not only entertaining but also inspirational.
A Grade Seven learner at Mahetse Primary School, Thulani Siziba, said the performances by the uniformed forces had influenced his career ambitions.
“Seeing the soldiers marching with pride made me want to be like them. I want to defend my country one day,” he said.
In his keynote address, President Mnangagwa highlighted the need to guard jealousy the gains of the liberation struggle.
The celebrations also featured vibrant entertainment, including performances by the ZRP band and energetic displays by drum majorettes.
Football fans were not left out, as the crowd enjoyed an Independence Cup match between Highlanders FC and Scottland FC, which was won by the latter.
This year’s commemorations were held under the theme “Zim@46 — Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030”, which resonated strongly with the spirit of togetherness exhibited by the diverse crowd.
The successful hosting of the national event in Maphisa also highlighted the Government’s commitment to decentralising national programmes and ensuring that development reaches all parts of the country.
New infrastructure, upgraded facilities and improved public spaces developed ahead of the celebrations are expected to leave a lasting legacy for the community.
As the celebrations came to a close, the historic turnout and colourful atmosphere underscored Maphisa’s emergence as a capable host of national events, marking a defining moment for the district and its people.
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