Staff Reporter
Matabeleland South Province has been selected to host Zimbabwe’s 2026 Independence Day celebrations, following Cabinet approval of a new venue selection criterion aimed at promoting equitable development across provinces.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere announced the development during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, stating that the selection is in line with the Second Republic’s Devolution Agenda, which decentralises national events to stimulate infrastructure growth in underserved areas.
“Cabinet approved criteria to determine future hosts for Independence Day Celebrations and Children’s Party events, based on the national Infrastructure Deficit Index. This prioritises provinces with the greatest infrastructure development needs among those that have not yet hosted the Uhuru celebrations,” said Dr. Muswere.
He added that after Matabeleland South, Masvingo Province will take its turn in 2027.
The rotation of hosting duties was introduced in 2021 as part of efforts to promote inclusivity and ensure that all regions benefit from national events. Since then, five provinces have already hosted the Independence Day and Children’s Party celebrations starting with Harare in 2021, Bulawayo in 2022, Mashonaland Central in 2023, Manicaland in 2024, and Midlands in 2025.
“In the past, the Independence Day Celebrations and Children’s Party events were consolidated in Harare. Notwithstanding this precedent, the Second Republic’s Devolution Agenda catalysed a transformative shift, decentralising these events and instituting a rotational format across the ten provinces,” Dr. Muswere explained.
Under the newly adopted system, provinces that have not hosted before and have significant infrastructure gaps will be given priority. This approach ensures that national events also serve as catalysts for development prompting improvements in roads, hotels, communication systems, and public spaces in preparation for the celebrations.
Stakeholders across the country have welcomed the decision as a progressive move that affirms the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and regional equity. The rotational hosting of Independence Day not only honours the country’s diverse heritage but also brings tangible economic and infrastructural benefits to different communities.
As preparations begin for the 2026 Uhuru celebrations in Matabeleland South, local leaders and communities are expected to collaborate with central government agencies to ensure successful and impactful commemorations.
