Richard Muponde
On August 12, Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad, will commemorate Heroes Day at an opportune time when the nation stands at the intersection of history and progress.
It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by the living and late freedom fighters.
The main Heroes Day commemorations will be held at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, with provinces simultaneously holding remembrances in their respective areas.
Economic strides made under the Second Republic, led by President Mnangagwa, and guided by the National Development Strategy 1, as encapsulated in Vision 2030, have not only revitalised the nation’s economy but also breathed life into the aspirations of those who fought for Zimbabwe’s freedom.
Freedom fighters envisioned a Zimbabwe where all races would coexist in peace and prosperity.
President Mnangagwa’s mantra “leaving no one and no place behind” embodies this vision.
Today, this vision is becoming a reality, as a resurgent economy and massive infrastructure development projects begin to materially benefit the majority of Zimbabweans.
The country’s development war cry, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo”, is putting people at the centre of development.
Since assuming power in 2017, President Mnangagwa has embarked on several flagship projects that have redefined Zimbabwe’s economic landscape.
The new steel plant in Manhize, set to be the largest in Africa, symbolises the nation’s renewed drive towards industrial prowess and commitment to becoming a regional economic powerhouse.
The US$1,5 billion steel plant was established by China’s Dinson Iron and Steel Company (Disco).
According to Disco chairperson Mr Benson Xu, the project is going to be one of the biggest in Africa and the globe.
The Manhize project is coming with a new town of about 30 000 residents.
Plans are also underway for the construction of a university and a foundries centre at Manhize, a development that will result in the creation of employment for more than 20 000 people.
Given that the iron ore reserves from which the project taps its feedstock are enough to last over 200 years, this will ensure the sustainability of the venture.
In terms of employment, Disco expects to directly employ 3 000 workers in the first phase, with the figure expected to rise to 25 000 during the fourth phase.
Zimbabwe, which is largely undergoing massive infrastructural development since the advent of the Second Republic, has been importing steel for domestic use.
Iron and steel products are critical for construction, infrastructure development and manufacturing.
The rehabilitation of key infrastructure, such as the Beitbridge-Masvingo-Harare highway, and construction of the Mbudzi Traffic Interchange signify dedication to modernising Zimbabwe’s roads, fostering connectivity and driving economic growth.
Moreover, the revolutionised agriculture sector has yielded remarkable results, culminating in an unprecedented wheat harvest not seen since 1964 in the previous cropping season.
This achievement not only demonstrates the resilience of Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector but also showcases the nation’s potential to become the breadbasket of the region once again.
Additionally, the commissioning of
two new units at the Hwange Power Station underscores commitment to energy sufficiency and sustainability crucial for powering Zimbabwe’s industrial and economic
growth.
These projects embody the freedom fighters’ dreams of a prosperous, equal and just society.
They are not only a testament to President Mnangagwa’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the late freedom fighters but also embody the spirit of progress and inclusivity that they fought for.
As Heroes Day fast approaches, there is renewed optimism that the ultimate mission of the liberation struggle is being fulfilled.
The freedom fighters’ legacy lives on, inspiring a new generation to build upon the foundations laid during the liberation struggle.
Overall, the aspirations of those who made the supreme sacrifice are finally being fulfilled.
