Staff Reporter
Government has declared several significant sites as National Monuments in a move to preserve Zimbabwe's rich history and heritage.
These newly recognized monuments include Kamungoma in Gutu District, Masvingo Province; Herbert Mine in Mutasa South District, Manicaland Province; St Mary’s Cathedral in Bulawayo; and the Bulawayo Hanging Tree.
Kamungoma, situated on Farm 340 of Dewure Purchase Land, holds considerable historical importance due to its role in Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. This area served as a strategic location for freedom fighters, providing a base for organizing and launching operations against the colonial regime.
Herbert Mine, located in Mutasa District of Manicaland Province, is another site of significant historical importance. The mine is known for the Herbert Mine massacre, where several liberation fighters and local supporters were brutally killed by Rhodesian forces.
This tragic event highlighted the brutal nature of the colonial regime and galvanized further support for the independence movement. The mine stands as a symbol of the sacrifices made by many Zimbabweans in their quest for freedom and justice, marking it as a poignant reminder of the nation's turbulent path to independence.
The Bulawayo Hanging Tree is a historic site with a grim legacy tied to the colonial era. This large fig tree, situated near the present-day Bulawayo City Hall, was used by colonial authorities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for public executions.
Many indigenous people who resisted colonial rule or were accused of crimes were hanged from its branches, making it a symbol of the brutal methods employed by the colonial regime to maintain control.
Today, the Bulawayo Hanging Tree stands as a sombre reminder of Zimbabwe's colonial past and the suffering endured by those who fought for freedom and justice.
Historian Gilbert Motsi commented on the importance of these declarations, stating, "Preserving these historical sites is crucial for future generations. They serve as tangible reminders of our past, teaching us about the sacrifices and struggles that shaped our nation. Recognizing and protecting these sites ensures that the legacy of those who fought for our freedom is not forgotten."
Motsi added that the Government's decision to declare these sites as National Monuments highlights its commitment to preserving Zimbabwe's heritage.
“These monuments not only commemorate the country's history but also educate and inspire current and future generations about the resilience and determination of the people who contributed to Zimbabwe's journey to independence,” said Motsi.
