Staff Reporter
Next year’s Independence Day celebrations will be held in Maphisa, Matobo District, as Government continues its drive to decentralise national events in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of "leaving no one and no place behind."
This was announced today during a post-Cabinet media briefing by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere.
The Minister revealed that Cabinet had approved an update on the status of Independence Day commemorations and legacy projects, as well as the proposed venue for the 46th Independence Day and 2026 Children’s Party.
"Cabinet noted and approved the Update on the Status of Independence Day Commemorations and Children’s Party Legacy Projects Across Provinces, as well as the Proposed Venue for the 46th Independence Day and 2026 Children’s Party," said Dr Muswere.
The selection of Maphisa Open Space in Matabeleland South Province as the host for next year’s celebrations was described as strategic, given the area’s historical importance and potential to spur development.
"This strategic selection leverages Maphisa's profound historical significance and multifaceted benefits. Notably, the event will catalyse infrastructure development, including the rehabilitation of key roads such as the Gwanda-Maphisa and Bulawayo-Maphisa roads,” said Minister Muswere.
The Bulawayo-Maphisa Road will also be extended to Mpoengs on the Botswana border to enhance regional connectivity, boost economic growth, and promote social cohesion.
The Minister highlighted that Government has made significant progress in implementing legacy projects—including clinics, bridges, schools, and roads—initiated during past Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations.
"The Government of Zimbabwe has made significant strides in implementing legacy projects initiated during Independence Day and Children's Party Celebrations across various provinces. Government remains committed to replicating this initiative in the remaining provinces as they take turns hosting the National Independence Day and Children's Party Celebrations. The projects include clinics, bridges, schools, roads and supporting infrastructure under a strategy to ensure sustainable development in the Page 2 of 11 host province and thereby transform livelihoods in communities," he added.
To ensure the completion of outstanding projects, a budget of US$2.5 million has been allocated for Manicaland and Mashonaland Central provinces, while US$32.5 million will be disbursed for legacy projects in Midlands Province.
The move to rotate national celebrations aims to ensure all provinces benefit from infrastructure upgrades while fostering national unity. With Maphisa now in focus, Matabeleland South is set to experience accelerated development ahead of next year’s historic event.
