Venus Charumbira
Zim GBC Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
Preparations for the 46th Independence Anniversary celebrations are at an advanced stage, with most activities expected to be completed before the main event.
Honourable Daniel Garwe, speaking on behalf of Vice President Dr. K.C.D. Mohadi, told Cabinet that work at the main arena, stadium, and access roads is scheduled to be finished by 15th April 2026.
“Major roads such as Bulawayo-Maphisa and Gwanda-Maphisa are under construction and should be completed by August 2026”, said Honorable Garwe.
In the meantime, the government will make sure these roads are usable, and detours will be closed before the celebrations.
Other roads, including Maphisa-Mphoengs, Sun Yat Sen-Manama, and St Joseph-Sun Yat Sen, are also being repaired. Workers are fixing storm-water drains, grading, and gravelling to improve access to the celebration venue.
Honorable Garwe highlighted that, the Children’s Party will take place on 17th April 2026 at Mahetshe Primary School. A total of 3,050 children will attend and President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa will host the event.
The Independence Torch relay began on 10th April 2026. The flame was lit at Zezane Assembly Point in Matabeleland South Province by Vice President Gen. Dr. Chiwenga.
“The torch is moving through districts in the province. On 17th April 2026, Vice President Col. (Rtd.) Dr. K.C.D. Mohadi will receive it at Ratanyana Liberation Site”.
“From there, athletes will carry the torch to Maphisa and hand it over to the President on Independence Day” Hon. Garwe added.
During the press briefing they highlighted that , all logistical arrangements including transport, food, security, invitations, and media coverage are ready.
Power supplies have been set up and several projects that had stalled are now finished. These include:
- The J.M.N. Nkomo Polytechnic Home Economics Block at Gwanda Polytechnic
- Renovation of 34 government properties
- The Beitbridge Re-development Housing Project
- The Insiza District Civil Registry
- Rehabilitation of Kezi Rural Hospital
In addition, young people are being trained in digital skills, and housing for Liberation War Veterans is being prioritised.
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