Staff Reporter

Preparations for National Heroes Day and Zimbabwe Defense Forces Day celebrations are nearing completion.

Speaking during yesterday’s post-cabinet media briefing, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere informed that the minting of Independence Medals to be conferred by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Heroes Day will be ready by August 9, 2024.

“The production of these medals is a crucial part of our preparations. His Excellency, the President will personally confer seven medals during the Heroes Day Commemorations,” said Minister.

Minister Muswere announced that a select football team from the Zambian Defence Forces will compete against a team from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.

“This year’s Defence Forces Day, themed ‘Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for the Attainment of Vision 2030,’ will be celebrated on August 13 at Rufaro Stadium in Harare. The day’s celebrations will also feature various military displays, parades, and cultural performances, showcasing the rich heritage and unity of the Defence Forces.

“However, starting next year a separate conferment ceremony will be held on the stipulated date, with the nomination process already underway. The conferment of medals on those that exuded valour and humanitarianism by selflessly dedicating themselves and performing outstandingly in various fields is meant to immortalize and memorialize these individuals for honorably serving the nation in certain distinct ways,” he said.

Meanwhile, the planning and execution of these commemorations reflect the Government’s unwavering commitment to honour and celebrate our fallen and living heroes for their selfless sacrifice to the country’s attainment of independence.