President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to emulate the enduring legacy of former Vice President, Joseph Wilfred Msika, saying his unwavering commitment to the liberation struggle, national unity and inclusive development should inspire the nation as it accelerates towards the attainment of Vision 2030.
In a message commemorating the 17th anniversary of Cde Msika’s passing, on Tuesday, President Mnangagwa paid tribute to the late nationalist, describing him as a selfless patriot whose sacrifices for Zimbabwe’s independence and development remain deeply embedded in the country’s history.
“Our great Nation solemnly joins the Msika family in commemorating the 17th Anniversary of the passing on of Cde Joseph Wilfred Msika, a staunch veteran nationalist and Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe from 1999 to 2009,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President said Cde Msika dedicated his life to the struggle for Zimbabwe’s liberation through nationalist politics and the armed struggle, enduring years of imprisonment, including detention at Gonakudzingwa Restriction Camp, in pursuit of the country’s freedom.
He said the late Vice President remained steadfast in advancing social justice and equitable development after independence in 1980, playing a significant role in supporting the Government’s Land Reform Programme and championing the empowerment of previously disadvantaged communities.
President Mnangagwa said this month’s Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day commemorations present Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad, with an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by liberation heroes who secured the country’s independence and sovereignty.
“It is only befitting that Zimbabweans at home and in the diaspora take time to reflect on the life of struggle, sacrifice and service which the late Vice President Joseph Msika personified,” he said.
The President said Cde Msika and his generation bequeathed to Zimbabwe the invaluable gift of freedom, independence and statehood, laying the foundation for the country’s continued socio-economic transformation.
He said the Government remains committed to preserving the ideals that defined the liberation struggle as the country implements the National Development Strategy and advances towards becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
“As the National Development Strategy enters its final stretch, with our Nation resolutely marching towards the attainment of Vision 2030, we continue to uphold the noble values of sacrifice, patriotism, freedom, unity, love and tolerance which Cde Msika espoused,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President further said the safeguarding of those values remains critical to strengthening national unity, accelerating sustainable development and ensuring that the legacy of liberation icons such as Cde Msika continues to inspire future generations.
