Zimbabweans living abroad have been urged to unite in commemorating the forthcoming National Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day, with the Zanu PF United Kingdom District saying the national events provide an important opportunity to honour the sacrifices of liberation heroes and reaffirm commitment to the country’s development.
Speaking ahead of the national commemorations, Zanu PF United Kingdom District Chairperson, Xavier Zavare, said Zimbabweans in the diaspora remain an integral part of the nation and should actively participate in remembering the men and women whose sacrifices secured the country’s independence.
He said the theme of this year’s commemorations, “Lest We Forget,” serves as a reminder that the liberation struggle laid the foundation for the peace, freedom and opportunities enjoyed by Zimbabweans today, regardless of where they reside.
“Regarding the forthcoming National Heroes Day on the 10th of August and the Defence Forces Celebrations Day on the 11th, we are part of the celebrations. We are among the children of Zimbabwe gathered across the world to remember the sacrifices that brought our independence in 1980. It is very important for every Zimbabwean, wherever we might be, whether we are in China, the United Kingdom, Canada, Namibia or South Africa, to appreciate what was done by those who paid the ultimate price and those who are still alive,” said Cde Zavare.
He said the liberation struggle should continue to inspire national unity and patriotism among younger generations, adding that Zimbabweans living outside the country have a responsibility to preserve the history and values that shaped the nation.
Cde Zavare paid tribute to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, describing him as one of the surviving senior liberation cadres whose experiences continue to provide leadership during national commemorations.
“We appreciate his leadership of the country and his leading us through this year’s national commemorations under the theme ‘Lest We Forget’. We should never forget the generation that liberated Zimbabwe,” he said.
Reflecting on his personal experiences during the liberation struggle, Cde Zavare recalled how his family was directly affected by the war, saying such memories reinforced the importance of safeguarding Zimbabwe’s hard-won independence.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by freedom fighters, Mujibhas, Chimbwidos and civilians who supported the liberation struggle, saying their collective contribution made independence possible.
Looking beyond the liberation struggle, Cde Zavare said Zimbabwe was now pursuing economic transformation under the Second Republic, adding that the freedoms won through the armed struggle had created the platform for national development.
“It is very important to be free, and we continue under the guidance and leadership of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa to pursue economic freedom and economic development. We appreciate that we can do this because of the sacrifices made by our heroes,” he said.
He said Zimbabweans in the United Kingdom would join the country’s diplomatic mission in commemorating Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day, while others would travel home to participate in events at the National Heroes Acre and provincial heroes’ acres.
Cde Zavare said the commemorations also provide an opportunity to recognise living liberation war veterans, urging continued support for their welfare, healthcare and economic well-being as a lasting expression of gratitude for their sacrifices.
He added that preserving the legacy of the liberation struggle remains essential in strengthening patriotism, national unity and collective commitment to Zimbabwe’s long-term development aspirations.
