Staff Reporter
A number of individuals who have shown exceptional valour and humanitarianism through their selfless dedication and outstanding performance in various fields will be conferred with medals at this year's Heroes and Defence Forces Days celebrations.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, during a post-cabinet media briefing yesterday.
Minister Muswere emphasized that the conferment of medals on those who have exuded valour and humanitarianism is meant to immortalize and memorialize these individuals for honourably serving the nation in distinct ways.
"There shall be the conferment of six awards, namely: the Royal Order of Munhumutapa, where one person will be honoured; the Order of the Star of Zimbabwe, with one person honoured; the Gold Cross of Zimbabwe, which will honour two individuals; the Silver Cross of Zimbabwe, with two individuals honoured; the Commendation Medal, honouring one person; and the Independence Medals to Veterans of the Liberation Struggle, including War Collaborators, with 2,000 individuals to be honoured across the ten provinces," stated Dr. Muswere.
The Minister further explained that the 14th of May each year was designated for the National Honours and Awards Conferment ceremony.
However, due to unforeseen circumstances that prevented the holding of the event on the specified date, the Honours and Awards Conferment Ceremony will be held as a joint event with the Heroes Commemoration, as has been the tradition in previous years.
Minister Muswere also announced that National Heroes Day will be commemorated on the 12th of August, 2024, at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, with provinces simultaneously holding commemorations in their respective jurisdictions.
Furthermore, Minister Muswere highlighted that Defence Forces Day will be celebrated on the 13th of August, 2024, at Rufaro Stadium in Harare under the theme “Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for Attainment of Vision 2030.”.
"Prior to this, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces will carry out community assistance projects from August 5th to August 9th, 2024, and the completed projects will be handed over to the communities. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces will also carry out a week-long medical outreach, during which they will offer free consultations and treatment for minor ailments. Preparations for this event are also at an advanced stage," added Dr. Muswere.
These commemorations and celebrations are set to honour the bravery and dedication of Zimbabwean citizens and the Defence Forces, recognizing their critical roles in the nation's history and ongoing development.
