By Edward Makuzva
For the first time in history, Gokwe-Nembudziya will host Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development. This announcement has sparked excitement among locals, who see it as a recognition of the area’s transformation under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership.
Once regarded as a remote rural settlement, Gokwe-Nembudziya has undergone remarkable changes in recent years. Major infrastructure projects, including the construction of modern roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, have reshaped the region. The government’s focus on agricultural development and electrification has also boosted economic activity, positioning Gokwe-Nembudziya as a rising hub in the Midlands Province.
The decision to hold the Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe-Nembudziya is part of the government’s broader agenda to decentralize national events and promote previously overlooked regions. Officials say the event will showcase the area’s progress, allowing Zimbabweans to appreciate the transformation firsthand.
Local businesses are already preparing for the influx of visitors, as thousands of people, including government officials, diplomats, and citizens from across the country, are expected to attend. Hotels and lodges in nearby towns are fully booked, and vendors are eager to benefit from the increased demand for food and services.
Speaking about the decision, President Emmerson Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of inclusive development. “Gokwe-Nembudziya is a symbol of what we can achieve when we invest in our communities. This celebration is not just about our independence but also about the future we are building,” he said.
In an interview with this publication, ZANU PF Midlands Province Chairman, Edson Chakanyuka Chiherenge, reaveled that preparations for the 45th Independence Day celebrations were well underway.
He emphasized the province’s commitment to ensuring that the event would be a resounding success, highlighting the coordination between various government departments, local authorities, and community stakeholders. Chiherenge noted that the celebrations would not only commemorate Zimbabwe’s hard-won freedom but also showcase the developmental strides achieved under the Second Republic.
“This is a historic moment for the Midlands Province, and Gokwe-Nembudziya in particular,” said Chiherenge. “For the first time since independence, our community is hosting the national celebrations, and that alone is a testament to the inclusive leadership of the Second Republic under President Mnangagwa. It shows that no place is left behind and too remote to be recognized and celebrated.
“The Second Republic has transformed the face of this province. From road infrastructure, health facilities, schools, irrigation schemes, to the empowerment of rural communities through devolution funds—our people are seeing and feeling development firsthand. These celebrations are not just symbolic; they reflect the tangible progress we have made as a nation, with Gokwe now standing proudly on the national stage”, ZANU PF Midlands Province Chairman, Chiherenge.
President Mnangagwa’s decision to have the 45th Independence Day celebrations hosted in Gokwe-Nembudziya marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s history and reflects his administration’s commitment to inclusive national development under the Second Republic.
For the first time since independence in 1980, the commemorations are being held in a rural district, symbolizing a deliberate shift from the traditional urban-centered approach to one that recognizes the role of every Zimbabwean, regardless of geographic location, in shaping the nation’s destiny. This move aligns with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
The choice of Gokwe-Nembudziya is not accidental. It represents the broader transformation agenda that the Second Republic has pursued, bringing development to previously marginalized areas. Over the past few years, the region has witnessed major infrastructural upgrades, including road rehabilitation, school construction, health service expansion, and electrification—efforts that have directly improved the lives of residents.
By bringing the national spotlight to Gokwe-Nembudziya, President Mnangagwa is not only celebrating the country’s liberation legacy but also showcasing the dividends of independence and development that have reached even the most rural communities. The gesture reaffirms the government’s recognition of the sacrifices made by rural populations during the liberation struggle and its ongoing commitment to equitable national development.
“The President’s decision to bring Independence celebrations here is a clear message that development is no longer reserved for cities. It is a recognition of the resilience and potential of rural Zimbabwe,” said Chiherenge.
The celebrations are therefore both a tribute to the past and a powerful statement about the future—one rooted in unity, empowerment, and progress across all corners of Zimbabwe.
Local leader Chief Nembudziya expressed his pride, stating, “This is a historic moment for our people. We have waited for recognition, and now, we have it. Our community is ready to host the nation.”
With preparations in full swing, Gokwe-Nembudziya is gearing up to deliver a memorable Independence Day celebration, proving that even the most unexpected places can rise to prominence with the right vision and commitment.
Residents of Gokwe-Nembudziya, who have long felt neglected, are welcoming the spotlight with enthusiasm.
Stephen Moyo (40), who resides at Nyamuroro Business Center, under Gokwe-Nembudziya, expressed deep pride in witnessing the 45th Independence Day celebrations being hosted in his home area—a moment he described as both historic and inspiring for the local community.
“For many years, we watched these celebrations happen in major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, and we never thought such an event would reach our doorsteps,” said Moyo. “This year’s independence celebrations are not just about festivities—they are a recognition of our existence, our contribution to the country’s freedom, and the development journey we are now part of.”
He highlighted how the preparations and activities leading up to the event had transformed the local landscape and brought a sense of unity and purpose among residents.
“We have seen roads being worked on, schools and clinics getting attention, and there’s a sense of pride among our people. Even our children now understand that they matter in the bigger picture of our nation,” Moyo added.
He also commended the Second Republic for decentralizing national programs and making sure that rural communities like Nyaurungwe are no longer left behind.
“This is the Zimbabwe we fought for—where every citizen, from the village to the city, feels seen and included. President Mnangagwa has shown us that under the Second Republic, development is coming home.”
Events lined up for Gokwe-Nembudziya’s hosting of Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day celebrations:
April 17 – Independence Eve Activities
1. Children’s Party at Nyamuroro High School:
This annual tradition is a key part of Independence celebrations, where the President and First Lady host over 3,000 school children from all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe. The party offers a platform for the younger generation to interact with national leaders and understand the significance of Independence. Activities will include games, performances, motivational speeches, and a formal luncheon. Gifts and learning materials are usually distributed, and the event emphasizes the government’s commitment to nurturing future leaders.
2. Independence Gala at Nembudziya Government High School:
This is a festive evening musical celebration, open to the public, featuring performances from top local artists, traditional dance troupes, and DJs. The gala will celebrate Zimbabwe’s cultural diversity and unity, with people from across the Midlands and beyond expected to attend. These galas are known for their vibrant atmosphere and serve as a platform for national pride, social cohesion, and community celebration leading into Independence Day.
April 18 – Main Independence Day Celebrations
Official Ceremony at Nembudziya Growth Point Open Ground:
This is the main national event and will be officiated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The ceremony will include the official Independence Day address by the President, a military parade, the lighting of the Independence Flame, and the singing of the national anthem. Dignitaries, service chiefs, government officials, and thousands of citizens are expected to attend. This ceremony is both a solemn remembrance of the liberation struggle and a celebration of the country’s sovereignty and achievements.
Cultural Performances:
Throughout the day, various cultural groups from around the country will perform traditional music, dances, poetry, and drama. These performances are meant to highlight the richness of Zimbabwe’s heritage and reinforce national identity. Schools and community groups will also showcase local talent, creating a vibrant cultural display that reflects the country’s unity in diversity.
Uhuru Cup Football Match:
A key sporting highlight of the day, the Uhuru Cup will feature a competitive match between top Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League clubs, featuring defending Champions Simba Bhora and FC Platinum. Football lovers across the country will be tuning in or attending, adding a high-energy sporting element to the celebrations. The match symbolizes national unity and is a popular attraction during Independence festivities.
New Era: The Birth of the Second Republic
The transition of power in November 2017 marked a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s history. Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rise to power followed a military-assisted intervention that ended Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule. Mnangagwa, affectionately known as “ED” or “Ngwena” (The Crocodile), presented himself as a pragmatic leader with a reformist agenda, promising a departure from the policies that had led to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic collapse.
His administration coined the term “Second Republic” to reflect a new dispensation characterized by openness, modernization, and economic revitalization. The international community watched with cautious optimism as Mnangagwa promised free and fair elections, anti-corruption reforms, economic liberalization, and a focus on meritocracy over patronage. His first months were marked by efforts to re-establish Zimbabwe as a credible global player, woo investors, and attract diaspora support.
1. Political Developments and Governance
Legal and Institutional Reforms
One of Mnangagwa’s earliest promises was to uphold the Constitution and ensure political reform. The government undertook legal alignments to the 2013 Constitution. POSA was replaced by the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA), and AIPPA was repealed, with new legislation including the Freedom of Information Act introduced to promote media transparency.
However, the practical implementation of these laws often lagged behind rhetoric. Critics argue that MOPA retained much of POSA’s repressive character, especially in regulating protests.
Devolution and Decentralization
The Constitutionally-mandated devolution agenda gained renewed focus. Budget allocations were made to provincial councils through Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers, enabling local authorities to make developmental decisions suited to their regions. Infrastructure, healthcare, and education in marginalized areas like Matabeleland North and Midlands began to see slow improvements, though bureaucratic inertia remained a barrier.
POLAD and Inclusive Dialogue
The Political Actors Dialogue (POLAD) brought together presidential candidates from the 2018 elections to build consensus on key national issues. While the main opposition, MDC Alliance, opted out, the platform provided smaller parties and civil society with a space to influence policy direction. Mnangagwa emphasized “nation-building through dialogue,” but critics viewed POLAD as a political appeasement mechanism with limited impact.
2. Economic Reforms and Investment Drive
Monetary Policy and Currency Reform
Mnangagwa’s government reintroduced the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) in June 2019, ending a decade of dollarization. This move aimed to restore monetary sovereignty, but hyperinflation and low public confidence in the local currency led to widespread market volatility. Statutory Instrument 142 of 2019 outlawed foreign currency transactions, though partial dollarization later returned due to inflation.
ZIDA and Investment Climate
The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) Act was passed in 2020 to create a one-stop investment centre. ZIDA streamlined licensing, land acquisition, and regulatory compliance for foreign and domestic investors. Major deals were signed in sectors like lithium (Arcadia Mine), gold, iron, and coal. The mantra “Zimbabwe is open for business” became the central message at international summits, including Davos and the Russia-Africa Summit.
Agriculture Revitalization
Programs like Pfumvudza/Intwasa—a conservation agriculture model—helped smallholder farmers boost maize yields and climate resilience. The government also partnered with banks for the Agricultural Finance Facility, targeting commercial productivity. Tobacco production hit record highs post-2018, while wheat production in 2022 reached self-sufficiency for the first time in decades.
3. Infrastructure Development
Transport and Roads
The Second Republic launched a massive overhaul of Zimbabwe’s road infrastructure:
Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway: Modernized through a phased approach with local contractors.
Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP): Restored thousands of kilometers of roads damaged by years of neglect.
Energy Projects
Zimbabwe’s power generation improved through:
Hwange Thermal Power Station Units 7 and 8:
600MW added to the national grid in partnership with Sinohydro and China Exim Bank.
Expansion of solar energy farms in Mashonaland Central and Gwanda as part of the Renewable Energy Policy.
Water Infrastructure
Mega dam projects targeted water scarcity:
Gwayi-Shangani Dam: A key component of the Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project, aimed at supplying Bulawayo and enabling irrigation farming.
Kunzvi and Causeway Dams: Intended to enhance Harare’s water supply.
Housing and Urbanization
The government rolled out a National Housing Delivery Programme, aiming to build 220,000 housing units by 2025. Smart cities like Mount Hampden, envisioned as the new capital, began taking shape with the construction of the New Parliament Building funded by China.
4. Social Services and Human Capital Development
Education
Curriculum Reform: Emphasis on entrepreneurship, STEM, and competence-based learning.
New universities were commissioned (e.g., Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences).
The Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) continued to support vulnerable children.
Health Sector
COVID-19 pandemic response included acquisition of vaccines from China (Sinopharm and Sinovac), resulting in over 6 million fully vaccinated citizens by 2022.
Over 200 rural health posts constructed, expanding access in underserved areas.
Partnership with private sector to refurbish hospitals like Parirenyatwa and Sally Mugabe Central Hospital.
Social Safety Nets
Monthly cash transfers and food aid programs were expanded.
Youth and women empowerment funds were introduced under the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation.
5. International Re-engagement and Foreign Policy
Mnangagwa pursued a “Look East and South” policy, while cautiously mending ties with Western powers:
Renewed bilateral cooperation with China, Russia, Belarus, and United Arab Emirates.
Zimbabwe joined the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost regional integration.
Efforts to settle debt arrears were made with the IMF, World Bank, and AfDB, though conditions around governance reforms slowed progress.
Although the U.S. and EU sanctions remained in place, Zimbabwe continued to lobby for their removal, citing economic harm and diplomatic isolation.
6. Challenges and Criticisms
Despite progress, the Second Republic was marred by:
Persistent Inflation: Prices continued to soar, and parallel markets undermined formal exchange rates.
Labor Disputes: Teachers, nurses, and civil servants frequently protested over inadequate salaries.
Political Space: Crackdowns on dissent, arrests of activists, and constraints on media drew international concern.
Corruption: High-profile cases were exposed (e.g., Drax COVID-19 scandal), but few prosecutions led to convictions, raising questions about selective justice.
Conclusion: A Mixed Legacy with Promising Foundations
The Second Republic under Mnangagwa represents a period of ambitious reforms, uneven implementation, and complex national renewal. Significant strides were made in infrastructure, agricultural output, and re-engagement, laying groundwork for economic recovery.
However, enduring challenges such as inflation, governance deficits, and political polarization continue to affect public confidence. Whether Zimbabwe fully realizes Vision 2030 depends on sustained commitment to reform, transparency, and inclusive .
