Sithembinkosi L Jiyane & Ashley D Misho
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
The City of Bulawayo and Jeonbuk Province of Korea marked a new milestone in Zimbabwe–Korea cooperation through a series of landmark events combining cultural exchange, generosity, and visionary partnership.
The Korea Festival, hosted in Bulawayo, drew thousands of people and high-level dignitaries, while also providing the backdrop for Korea’s donation of medical equipment and a vehicle to support maternal healthcare services in the City.
Among the distinguished guests were the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Province, Honourable Judith Mkwanda Ncube; the Mayor of Bulawayo City, Senator David Coltart; the Vice Governor for Economy of Jeonbuk Province, Kim Kwan-Young; His Excellency, the Ambassador of Korea to Zimbabwe, Mr. Park Jaekyung; the Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr. P. Nyoni; and members of the Korean delegation.
Honourable Minister Ncube expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people and Government of Korea for the donation, describing it as a timely boost for the city’s healthcare system.
“This thoughtful gesture significantly enhances our healthcare delivery system in Bulawayo. The equipment will go a long way in strengthening maternal healthcare for our community, demonstrating the long-standing partnership between Zimbabwe and the Republic of Korea,” she said.
During the donation ceremony, a proposal was also made to formally twin Bulawayo Metropolitan Province with Jeonbuk Province. This initiative aims to foster collaboration in healthcare, economic development, and cultural exchange. Minister Ncube suggested formalizing the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and stressed the importance of involving ordinary citizens in these initiatives.
“Together, we can unlock the full potential of our collaboration and create lasting benefits for our respective citizens,” she said.
Minister Ncube also acknowledged the pivotal role of the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the KOICA Alumni Association of Zimbabwe (KAAZ), highlighting Ms. Sithembile Mangena’s contribution in securing the donation.
“Our alumni serve as living bridges between our nations, making partnerships tangible,” she noted.
Ambassador Park Jaekyung expressed his delight at participating in the festival, emphasizing the strong friendship between Korea and Zimbabwe.
“This friendship is built on trust, generosity, and a shared vision for the future,” he said.
The festival showcased vibrant Korean performances, including traditional music, dance, and art, while the people of Bulawayo presented their own cultural displays, such as the Ezimnyama Traditional Dance Group and a martial arts exhibition by the Bulawayo Karate Team.
Young Zimbabweans, in particular, expressed excitement at engaging with Korean culture, especially as fans of anime and Korean films. The event drew large crowds, creating an atmosphere of unity, joy, and cultural appreciation.
The Korea Festival, the donation of medical equipment, and the proposed twinning of Bulawayo and Jeonbuk Province collectively mark a new chapter in Zimbabwe–Korea relations.
These initiatives not only strengthen healthcare and cultural ties but also lay the foundation for lasting collaboration, mutual growth, and shared prosperity for the people of both regions.
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