Staff Reporter
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, through the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ), has launched an initiative to document, preserve, and promote the country’s liberation history.
This monumental project aims to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence and ensure the legacy of their struggle is passed on to future generations.
Speaking at the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe Strategic Planning Workshop in Harare yesterday, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe underlined the significance of preserving the nation’s history, including the contributions of regional allies during the liberation struggle.
He highlighted the critical roles played by Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Angola, and Tanzania in supporting Zimbabwe’s path to independence.
“As we embark on this noble endeavour, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who fought tirelessly for our freedom. We recognise the sacrifices made by our ancestors, whose resilience and determination paved the way for our independence. Our liberation heritage is a testament to their unwavering spirit and a reminder of the importance of preserving our history for future generations,” said Minister Kazembe.
The Ministry has adopted a comprehensive strategy to achieve its goal.
This includes forging Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with neighbouring countries, engaging local communities to preserve liberation heritage sites, and investing in both human resources and digital technologies to promote Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage on a global scale.
“Our expanded mandate presents an opportunity to collaborate with neighbouring countries, strengthening our bonds and promoting regional cooperation. We will work closely with these nations to identify, document, and preserve liberation heritage sites, ensuring our shared history is protected and celebrated,” the Minister added.
The Ministry’s efforts also involve working with the reconstituted Board of Trustees of the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe, which is tasked with overseeing the preservation and promotion of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
Heritage expert, Tafadzwa Mukumba commended the initiative, stating, “Documenting liberation heritage is not just about preserving history; it’s about reclaiming our identity and giving our children a sense of pride in their roots. This project ensures that future generations understand the sacrifices that were made for their freedom.”
Cultural advocate, Linda Musara also praised the move, emphasising its significance for regional unity.
“By collaborating with neighbouring countries, Zimbabwe is fostering a collective memory of the liberation struggle. This strengthens our cultural ties and helps us tell a unified story of resilience and triumph in Southern Africa,” she remarked.
With the Ministry’s strategic vision and a renewed commitment to preserving Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage, the country is poised to safeguard its cultural legacy, while promoting regional cooperation.
