Abigail Mawonde Herald Correspondent—
Zimbabweans have been urged to remain vigilant and safeguard the country’s hard won independence. War veterans said this in different interviews with The Herald yesterday ahead of the Heroes’ Day commemorations to be held in the various provincial and district centres across the country. Heroes’ Day is commemorated to honour heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives to liberate the country.

In an interview, Welfare Services for War Veterans, War Collaborators, Ex-Political Detainees and Restrictees Minister Tshinga Dube said the Heroes’ Day was a very important day on our national calendar and should be accorded the worth it deserves.

“Heroes’ Day is a very important day on our calendar. That is the day when we commemorate and remember our fallen heroes, those we left in Mozambique, in Zambia and those in the bushes of Zimbabwe.

“We will all gather to pay our respects to these people and we take them very seriously. We wish our children would be taught to take it very seriously,” he said. Cde Dube urged Zimbabweans to safeguard the country against detractors saying people should understand the depth of having one sacrificing his or her life to liberate others from colonial rule.

He warned war veterans against diverting from their values.

“I have heard that some war veterans had pledged not to attend the Heroes’ Day celebrations but I think that will be the gravest thing that they could do. We must actually make sure that all of us come in big numbers to commemorate this day.

“I know a lot of people have been saying a lot of things about our country, but, yes, I must say we are not angels in our country. We have our own shortcomings like any other country. There is no country in the world without its own problems, if there is one, I would be very surprised.

“So these people understand that like all other people, we want to make our country better; so it is not right for people to criticise our water, our soil, and our people and forget that we own this and we decide.

“Rather they should focus on their own problems,” he said. Speaking to the media yesterday, Zimbabwe Liberation War Collaborators (ZLWCo) Chairman Pupurai Togarepi said the Heroes Day was a special day to remember fallen heroes.

He dismissed rumours that associated his association with plans to boycott the national event. “We are going to the Heroes Acre. We are going to remember our Mujibas and Chimbwidos who died to liberate this country.

“War veterans may have their own way of communicating issues, we have our own way of communicating and we have not taken a united position to say because war veterans are not doing this, then we are going to do that . . . we have not gone to a point where we would then boycott revolutionary events,” he said.

Cde Togarepi added: “We remember our comrades not only on Heroes’ Day but every day and this is a special day where we go as the people of Zimbabwe and I would not want to find myself not in attendance, that will be very wrong.

“My membership is still saying that we will have to do it in remembrance of our membership who perished during and after the war and have been buried at these shrines. “We need to go there, remind our children and the people of Zimbabwe that those who lie there gave us our freedom and independence.”

Retired Brigadier General Ambrose Mutinhiri said the Heroes’ Day commemorations reminded him of the painful history of the country.

“As a war veteran, Heroes’ Day celebrations take me back to think about where we came from, the journey we travelled to independence,” he said. It was a long and painful journey, a journey where you lose some of your friends and it is during this time that we are reminded of all those sad moments.”

Cde Mutinhiri urged Zimbabweans to safeguard their national heritage. “As war veterans we are pained when see people who do not value what we fought for during the liberation struggle. I would like to tell all Zimbabweans that the country is ours and we have a duty to build it.

“We have people who sacrificed their lives to liberate it and we must not betray them. “People should work towards developing our country and learn to solve our problems peacefully and amicably rather than trying to destroy the country through useless quarrels,” he said.

In a statement yesterday, Tehillar Christian Network (TCN) Founder and President Reverand Sam Malunga called upon clerics to urge congregants to attend Heroes’ Day commemorations. “TCN calls upon clerics and religious leaders across the religious divide to exhort congregants to attend the National Heroes’ Day commemorations.

“Zimbabweans are at a time to retrospect and introspect the sacrificial contributions by fallen heroes and those living in paying the price for the freedom of Zimbabweans,” he said. Meanwhile, National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe executive director Dr Godfrey Mahachi said there was need for Government to allocate funds for the maintenance of provincial heroes’ acres around the country.

In an interview with The Herald yesterday, he said the situation on the ground was not matching the required standards for the provincial shrines. “Our provincial heroes’ acres are not in the best state, they should be much better that they are at the moment because they were created to basically represent the national heroes’ acre at provincial level,” he said.

He said development plans had been made some years back and the intention was to have the provincial heroes’ acres have almost a similar design and architecture for their level. “For instance the graves themselves are supposed to have a granite finish, they also need site museums so that they can be used for purposes of telling the story of our struggle.

“There are also various amenities that should accompany such infrastructure like ablutions and sitting spaces; which are part of the designs which were made but the challenge is on the implementation of those plans,” he said. Dr Mahachi said they had not been able to implement the development programme at provincial heroes’ acres due to lack of budgetary support for the past 10 years.

President Mugabe addresses delegates who attended the Heroes Day Commemorations at National Heroes Acre in Harare.-(Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

Updates by Felex Share, Fungai Lupande and Costa Mano

1334: Official proceedings have ended here at the National Heroes Acre and that concludes our updates. Thank you for joining us and please join us for tomorrow’s updates on the Defence Forces Day celebrations.

1326: The National Anthem is now being sung.

1322: 117 heroes are buried at the National Heroes Acre.

1315: Families and relatives of heroes interred at the national shrine are paying their respects and laying wreaths at the graves.

1255: President Mugabe will now lead the laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

1251: Choral groups are providing entertainment.

Play the video below:

1245: The President has finished his address.

1244: “I will no-longer say it’s a day of mourning but a day of celebrating…we’re happy that you left us a legacy and with that we can proudly say as I say long live Zimbabwe, long live our freedom, long live our sovereignty, makorokoto, I thank you,”

1242: “Ndakanzwa VaTsvangirai vachiti ngatibatanei tiite coalition, ndiyo yega nzira yatingaita kuti hurumende iyi iende..ehe makatadza kuikurira ka Zanu-PF? Iparty ine midzi..ndiyo midzi yacho iripano iyi..makuva aya haasi ekutamba nawo….Zimbabwe will never be a colony again, ndoshoko ravari kutaura varume nemadzimai varipano avo,”

1238: “I call for peace and unity among Zimbavweans, let us remain united in defence of our sovereignty, in defence of what our national heroes fought for, we should remain united, remain cognisant fo the fact that without unity we cannot make much progress…that is why things like protests don’t pay because they usually end being violent protests, zvinobatsirei kuti muende mumigwagwa kuti muratidze kuti munogona kuposhera matommbo, kurova mapurisa nematombo..kashinji ndozvinoitika izvozvo se vanhu vasati vashanduka,”

Part of the crowd which attended Heroes Day commemorations in Harare.-(Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

1234: “We praise our security forces for the calm that has been, the peace that has been but we praise them also for international peace obligations..tine vanhu vanobva kumauto, vanobva kuchipurisa vanenge vachidiwa kunyika dziri kutsirwa ne United Nations…they continue to raise the flag of Zimbabwe very high, makororkoto,”

1231: President Mugabe says measures to avoid civil servants salary delays are being developed.

1229: “The rural electrification has seen 8 579 Government institutions being electrified but 3 580 institutions mainly primary schools are yet to be electrified countrywide. In terms of road infrastructure…meaningful strides have been made,”

1223: He says Government is working on a number of programmes aimed at improving arrivals in the tourism sector as well as promoting local tourism.

1221: “Government will also implement mining reforms which are targeted at plugging the leakages that have been hampering the mining sector….tundege tunenge tichiuya muma farms umu tuchitutu goridhe redu..izvozvo kubirana hatizvide,”

1219: “Kana ve South Africa vakachema..asi isuwo tine mishonga yatai producer wo asi vaiti hatidi kuti iuye by road ngaiuye nendege kuti isvike ikoko yakudhura..saka ndezvekutaurirana izvi nehama dzedu dzeku South Africa,”

1216: “Kuvabatsira ikoko, zvino yakava nyaya hoo hapana zvikabva zvapindirwawo…nevanonzi VaMawarire..ndivo vakabva vasvetukira nyaya yacho..zvikadaro hapana nyika pasi pano isingazvi dzivirire..ndoyatinoti dumping iyoyo…hamungade kuti mazitye apinde munyika,”

1213: “Murawo wakaitwa unokwaniswa kuitwa ne hurumende asi uchibvumirwa uri pasi pemwuwe murawo unenge wapasiswa ne Parliament, uyu wakaitwa kuti ubatsire nyika yedu, tibatsire vanhu vedu vanorima angave madomasi nezvimwe zvakadaro zvinotengeswa muno munyika zvanga zvakuora nekuti kune vamwe vanga vakuti aah zveku South Africa zvakachipa kudarika zvemuno,”

1210:  President Mugabe says the recent gazetting of the SI64 is meant to protect local industry.

(From Left) Commander of the Defence Forces, General Constantino Guvheya Nyikadzino Chiwenga, Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Air Force of Zimbabwe Commander Air Marshall Perrance Shiri, Police Deputy Commissioner-General Levy Sibanda and Commissioner-General of Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, Retired Major General Paradzai Zimondi follow proceedings during Heroes Day commemorations at National Heroes Acre.-(Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

1208: “Usashore, usati aiwa chikafu chakupiwha veZanu chete hachizi chokwadi..handizvo zviri mutsika dzedu, mukubatira kwedu kwenyika…economic activity in  the agriculture sector has remained subdued due to effect of the El Nino weather phenomenon..in view of this Government is committed in pursuing strategies that guarantee food security in rural and urban communities,”

1206: “Saka tichiti ngati rambei tiri mugwara irworo rakatarwa nevarume nemadzimai varipano vakazvipira vachibva kunzvimbo dzakasiyana siyana, tinge tichionana zvisinei nekuti unobva ku region iyi….kana tava nenjodzi ingati pinde, takaita njodzi yema sanctions yataramba tinayo, kuzoita njodzi yemvura inoita kuti zvokudya zvoshomeka…huremende haisiyo inonaisa mvura kwete, asika chionai zvadaro inozama painogona napo kuti mhuri irarame kwese kwese hazvinei kuti uyu ndewe party ipi kana ipi,”

1201: “Hongu pazuva ranhasi tininge tichiyeuka magamba edu tininege tichiyeuka zvikuru kuzvipira kwavakaita kuti zuva ranhasi rigovapo, kuti rusununguko rugovapo, tinenge tichiyeuka zvakare kuti mukurwira nyika iyi kwaisava nezvekuti ava vaiva kwavo ava vari kwavo, vaiva vakabatana,”

1159: President Mugabe says “today as per tradition we are gathered at the national shrine and various shrines across the country and neighbouring countries. We continue to honour our gallant sons and daughters,”

1154: President Mugabe is now on the podium.

President Mugabe and First Lady Amai Dr Grace Mugabe are welcomed by Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the Heroes Day Commemorations at National Heroes Acre in Harare.-(Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

1153: Home Affairs Minister Dr Ignatius Chombo is now addressing the gathering as the Master of Ceremony. He says though they lie silent their heroic deeds beckon the people to follow them. He invites President Mugabe to address the people.

1136: A pastor is currently preaching on the podium. He castigates pastors who talk of “potholes and the police” in church instead of praying for the leadership.

1134: Due to connectivity issues at the national shrine we are facing challenges in uploading images.

1128:  Meanwhile, hundreds of people are gathered at the Mashonaland Central Heroes Acre in Bindura to commemorate the fallen heroes.

Gushungo Magamba Choir entertaining the people in Bindura. Picture by Fungai Lupande

1111: President Mugabe is now inspecting a quarter guard mounted by the Presidential Guard.

1108: President Mugabe has arrived accompanied by the First Lady Dr Grace Mugabe.

1057: VP Mnangagwa arrives.

President Mugabe and First Lady Amai Dr Grace Mugabe are welcomed by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko at the Heroes Day commemorations in Harare.-(Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

1047: VP Mphoko arrives.

1045: People are at the moment being entertained by various choral groups and the police band.

1044: All the service chiefs have arrived led by Zimbabwe Defence Forces commander General Constantino Chiwenga.

1043: Various cabinet ministers among them Prisca  Mupfumira, Saviour Kasukuwere, Kembo Mohadi, Sydney Sekeramayi, Christopher Mushohwe, Oppah Muchinguri, Patrick Zhuwao, Lazarus Dokora are alreay at the national shrine and have taken their seats in the main tent.

1033: Thousands of people are gathered at the national heroes acre for the main celebrations of Heroes Day. The main holding bay is filled to capacity

Artillery Brigade Soldiers fire a 21-Gun Salute in honour of Heroes at Bindura Provincial Heroes Acre yesterday

Herald Reporters
There was an overwhelming turnout from Mashonaland Central Province’s eight districts as people came to commemorate this year’s Heroes’ Day at Bindura Provincial Heroes’ Acre.

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and MP for Mazowe North Advocate Martin Dinha read the President’s speech.

In an interview, Advocate Dinha said the province had never witnessed such a huge turnout before.

“People came in their numbers, showing their commitment to the revolutionary struggle. This is a sign that people are not affected by rebellious conduct of war veterans in Harare,” said Advocate Dinha.

“People showed their faith, trust and unwavering support to the President, his values and virtues. It shows again that the party and Government are well supported in Mashonaland Central.

“As representatives of Government, I must add that we will not allow, let alone support this nonsense, which is happening in Harare.”

Masvingo joined the rest of the nation in celebrating Heroes’ Day with festivities being held in all the seven administrative districts.

The main celebrations were held at the Masvingo Provincial Heroes’ Acre where a capacity crowd including relatives of fallen heroes and heroines interred at the shrine, members of the uniformed forces and freedom fighters were in attendance. Proceedings reached a crescendo just before noon when Masvingo Provincial Affairs Minister Senator Shuvai Mahofa and Psychomotor Activities Minister Josaya Hungwe accompanied by service chiefs led by Masvingo provincial police commander Senior Assistant Commissioner Martha Mofolo and 4 Brigade Commander Brigadier General Exsebios Tshuma arrived at the provincial shrine.

Minister Hungwe then inspected the guard of honour in place of Senator Mahofa, who is still battling poor health.

Senator Mahofa then read the Presidential speech after the crowd had been entertained by various groups. She then led others in laying wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

There was also a 21-gun salute in honour of the fallen heroes and heroines at the provincial shrine.

The celebrations continued until the end of the day in Masvingo with a soccer match pitting Masvingo United and Masvingo City at Mucheke Stadium.

In Chinhoyi, thousands of people including relatives of fallen heroes gathered at the Chinhoyi Provincial Heroes’ Acre to commemorate the day.

Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs Minister Faber Chidarikire read the President’s speech before laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

He later visited relatives of each of the 53 heroes interred at the shrine.

In an interview, Minister Chidarikire revealed that plans were underway to spruce up the outlook of the shrine.

“We are working with the Ministry of Rural Development, Promotion and Preservation of National Culture and Heritage to spruce up the image of the shrine,” said Cde Chidarikire.

“We are going to put tombstones on all the graves at the shrine.”

He said committees have already been set up and the process is expected to be complete by August 2017. People were entertained by Dendera musician Suluman Chimbetu and 10-year-old, Sakhile Manyonga, who stole the show when she recited her poem “Gusvu Kumagamba”.

In Beitbridge, Senator Tambudzani Mohadi led the celebrations and read the President’s speech.

She bemoaned the poor state of the district’s shrine and challenged members of the community and local leaders to pull resources together, and upgrade the area.

Entertainment was provided by local schools, traditional dance groups, poets and drills by Sincere and town council security guards.

Assistant Commissioner Doyce

Nyemudzai Kakore Herald Correspondent
Churches must be instigators of peace and should desist from meddling in the political affairs of the country causing violence and instability, police Chaplin-General has said.

The minister of religion, who delivered the opening prayer at the Heroes’ Day commemorations at the National Heroes Acre in Harare yesterday, Assistant Commissioner Jeremiah Doyce said some churches have gone astray as they were descending into the political domain where they do not belong.

“As churches, the Bible says, we should pray for our nation as well as our leaders such as President Mugabe, service chiefs, ministers and MPs,” said Asst Comm Doyce.

President Mugabe, he said, was ordained by God to lead this country and people should respect that. He took a swipe at some churches that have traded the Bible for street protests against Government. This comes as opposition activists masquerading as pastors recently called on peaceful Zimbabweans to demonstrate against a constitutionally elected Government.

However, the protests flopped as peaceful Zimbabweans did not heed the unsanctioned calls.

Asst Comm Doyce called on all Zimbabweans to counter all negative calls for regime change by engaging in activities which empower them economically.

He said as churches, they should never be “salt-less” and that they should be the light and salt of the nation.

“We need people who stand in the gap such as Christians and politicians who are developmental and not destructive,” he said.

“We have a problem with people who begin to preach about potholes and police roadblocks in the church. Those who were given farms, haikona kuita toyi- toyi muroad, (Do not waste time engaging in pointless demonstrations).

“You should spend your time being productive in the fields or grounds.”

Asst Comm Doyce said Zimbabweans must defend their hard-won independence by defending their economic gains against imperialists.

“Now people must stand in the gap of sanctions as we have been robbed and plundered by the whites through economic sanctions.”

Meanwhile, a union of church leaders under the #MyZimbabwePrayer banner invited clerics to the official launch of the campaign in Harare on Wednesday.

The convocation is a call for church leaders for to pray for the nation, Government and President Mugabe.

Reverend Sam Malunga of the Tehila Christian Network, who is also a co-chairperson of the #MyZimbabwePrayer initiative, urged all church leaders to attend the launch and gather to reverse stunts taken by pseudo clerics in detracting the nation.

Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau—
It was business as usual at Beitbridge Border Post yesterday after Western-sponsored pressure groups who intended to block the South African side of the border to force the Government of Zimbabwe to abandon its newly-introduced import law, chickened out at the eleventh hour.The opposition groups among them, Tajamuka, African Diaspora Workers’ Network, Zimbabwe Communist Group, Zimbabwe Exiles Forum and International Cross-border Association had planned to hold a meeting at the Musina China Mall, followed by a march to block the border.

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Indications are that a few weeks ago, they had approached that country’s police without success to get a clearance, but failed and decided to forge ahead with their programme. They later chickened out at around 7am yesterday and all shops at the mall opened for business.

The group wanted to hold their illegal programme a few metres from where members from the neighbouring country’s army, police and immigration were mounting a checkpoint to weed out illegal immigrants.

Musina police spokesperson, Constable Dakalo Ramagweda said they had not received any reports of untoward incidents within the town and the border area. “There was no gathering at all. The situation is calm and people went about their businesses without disturbances throughout the day.

“Our officers are always alert and will continue maintaining peace within our area of jurisdiction,” she said. A spokesperson for a group calling itself Tajamuka, Mr Tino Mambeu said they were terrified with the presence of the police and the army near the venue.

“We have retreated and we are back on the drawing board, mapping the way forward. We wanted to carry out sit-in protests, which would culminate in the shutting down of all commercial activities and the border post.

“That is, however, not possible because we failed to get clearance from the police for a march and other outdoor activities. There is a high police visibility in all the areas we wanted to carry out our activities,” he said.

The chairperson of the Africa Diaspora Workers’ Network identified only as Miss J Munakamwe said they were holding more meetings to map the way forward. “We have retreated and will not disclose our plans at the moment to avoid ‘technical challenges’,” she said.

Zimbabwe’s police spokesperson, Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi said the situation at all the country’s ports of entry was peaceful. “We are happy that we did not receive reports of any disturbances or violence across the country. Most people commemorated the Heroes’ Day holiday in peace and we want to thank them for that.

“We have adequately deployed and are always as alert and ready to deal with any situations that are aimed at disturbing peace in the country,” said Chief Supt Nyathi. The border town of Beitbridge was at the beginning of July, rocked by violent protests which saw infrastructure vandalised and the South African side of the border shut down by pressure groups and businessmen in the neighbouring town of Musina.

This worsened when Zimbabwe introduced Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016 to restrict importation of goods that local manufacturers can produce. Some of the goods include; cheese, fertiliser, shoe polish, cooking oil, peanut butter, baked beans, coffee creamers, second hand tyres and body creams.

Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Constantino Guveya Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga flanked by Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda (left) and Air Force Commander Air Marshal Perrance Shiri, addresses a Press conference to mark the 36th anniversary of the ZDF Day Commemorations in Harare yesterday. — (Picture by Munyaradzi Chamalimba)

Innocent Ruwende Senior Reporter
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces will never accept any unconstitutional change of Government and will stand firm and unequivocal by President Mugabe who was duly and democratically elected by the people of Zimbabwe, the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Constantino Guveya Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga has said.

Speaking at a Press conference to mark the 36th anniversary of the ZDF Day Commemorations to be held today, General Chiwenga said the ZDF has been watching events in the country which have a serious potential to disturb the peace.

“These have to stop and people must focus on developmental programmes. The history of this country cannot, and will never be rewritten. It was only done once by colonialists in the Berlin Treaty, who by act of conquest, declared that they had brought civilisation and religion into Africa including Zimbabwe, as though we did not have our own religions and civilisation.”

“The African proverb which says, ‘hakuna zuva rinobuda rimwe risati ranyura’ holds true, because no nation can ever have two leaders at any one time. Therefore, the ZDF will never accept any unconstitutional change of Government and we stand firm and unequivocal by the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander-in-Chief of the ZDF, his Excellency Cde Mugabe,” he said.

“It follows that the ZDF, while remaining apolitical, would not tolerate or support any unconstitutional change of Government in the country, whether internally or externally induced”

Gen Chiwenga who was flanked by Air Force Commander Air Marshal Perrance Shiri, Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda and six other generals said while potential threats to Zimbabwe’s security were many, the Zimbabweans should know that the country is under the threat of asymmetric warfare.

He said to date the threat has manifested itself by way of psychological warfare, intrusive political interference, diplomatic isolation and socio-cultural intrusion.

“Where contradictions exist, we must be able to dialogue, bearing in mind that we are one people. We should learn to synchronise our approaches and have a common vision where the nation thinks with one mind, hears with one ear, speaks with one voice and collectively pulls in one direction.”

“It is the ZDF’s hope, therefore, that the internal component of this asymmetric threat to the country will take heed and desist from these divisive activities for the betterment of the whole nation,” he said.

He said recent events in Zimbabwe clearly demonstrate that State institutions, socio-political systems and even territories can now equally be threatened by manipulation of ideas through the use of social media giving an example of a communiqué attributed to a clique of war veterans which he said was a clear illustration of social media by the fifth column and its quislings.

Gen Chiwenga said investigations were underway on the matter and culprits will face the full wrath of the law saying the ZDF will work with other security services to ensure that effects of certain information, ideas and concepts that infiltrate into the population depict what is in line with the preservation of Zimbabwe’s values, vision and culture.

The ZDF, he said, will take deliberate steps to ensure that the country’s Constitution in its entirety, is not only protected and defended but is also upheld, sustained and supported at all times.

Asked on media claims that he was supporting a faction allegedly led by Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Gen Chiwenga said, “That is nonsense. Do you believe in that? People who peddle such kind of nonsense are not worth their soul.”

Gen Chiwenga congratulated President Mugabe, the nation and all members of the defence forces and their families on the 36th Anniversary of the ZDF. He said the celebrations will be held under the theme, “ZDF: Resolute in Defence of Constitution, National Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity and National Interests for Social and Economic Growth”.

Tapiwa Marimbe

Felex Share Senior Reporter—
Government’s probe into cyber terrorism has begun, with preliminary investigations pointing to three Zimbabweans based outside the country as originators of subversive and inflammatory messages on social media.The inciting messages, sent mostly via WhatsApp, are aimed at destabilising the country with the ultimate goal of effecting illegal regime change. The three terrorist suspects, according to security sources, are Victor Dube (resident in South Africa), Jeff Judah Hosanna (South Africa) and Tapiwa Marimbe (Australia).

The trio, believed to be working with MDC-T officials, has been sending messages containing threats of violence, murder as well as armed and landmine attacks against ordinary Zimbabweans and Government officials.

The messages are meant to intimidate Zimbabweans and cause instability.

Victor Dube

The revelations come in the wake of abortive calls by some shadowy and faceless groups calling for the shutting down of the country’s borders beginning yesterday, ostensibly to force Government to lift import controls on certain products from South Africa.

Zimbabweans, however, ignored the messages and went about their business yesterday. Security sources yesterday said Hosanna has been using mobile number +27744621779 to originate and send subversive WhatsApp messages.

He claims to lead an organisation called Smoke that Thunders Brigade which intends to wage war in Zimbabwe to remove the Government. In his video, which The Herald is in possession of, Hosanna has also threatened to kill Zimbabweans.

On the other hand, Dube, using mobile number +27736352897, sent a message threatening Zimbabweans, calling them to stay at home on August 11 or risk being killed. The suspected terrorist, together with his conspirators, threatened to kill a thousand people by planting landmines on various roads in the country and other methods.

Marimbe, who is based in Perth, Australia, is believed to be an accountant who has been using mobile number +61466919413 to create inflammatory messages. He sent a message and a video showing a man with a covered face packing firearms into a bag.

The man threatened to come to Zimbabwe with the firearms to wage war and kill citizens. Asked if he was behind the subversive material and if he was linked to the Smoke that Thunders Brigade, Hosanna responded: “That is very correct. Actually if you don’t mind, if you want an interview, if you want details you can phone me tomorrow (today) by 9 o’clock.”

Contacted for comment Dube first confirmed being the owner of the mobile number but when told that it was a journalist from The Herald, he distanced himself from the messages. “I am not Dube. What does that have to do with The Herald? Yes, I am a Zimbabwean and are you guys desperate for news?”

Told that he has to clear his name with the police, Dube said: “To come where? For what? How am I gonna (sic) come there? I am at work.” Marimbe could not be reached for comment. Efforts are being made to apprehend the trio, using Interpol, an intergovernmental organisation facilitating international police cooperation.

A security source yesterday said: “Should the three wish to clear their names, they are welcome to present themselves to the Zimbabwean police as soon as possible. The long arm of the law will reach out to them even if it means using international police machinery. Interpol is one such agency used to reach out to cross border criminals. We will work with other governments to extradite those who originate terrorist activities taking advantage that they are out of the country.

“Government warns Zimbabweans to desist from communicating with these and other terrorist suspects. Should anyone receive such terrorist messages, they are advised to inform the police and provide details of the person from whom they received such messages. Resending such terrorist messages to any person is aiding and abetting the terrorists. Therefore, those that resend such messages become accomplices of the originators and will be held accountable.”

Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Christopher Mushohwe this week warned a coterie of individuals feeding on the Western trough against causing confusion and anarchy in the country as part of the illegal regime change agenda.

He said the West was relentlessly funding opposition functionaries in a bid to effect regime change not only in Zimbabwe but the whole of Africa. As such, Dr Mushohwe said, Government was ready to deal with all social media abusers.

Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda last week also warned malcontents and the country’s detractors against using electronic gadgets to mobilise people to do unlawful activities.

Lt General Sibanda said the army was ready to deal with insurgent groups resorting to cyber warfare. He said because of the proliferation of cyber warfare, the country’s security sector had increased alertness. Western embassies such as the United States, Britain and France have been implicated as sponsors of violent demonstrations by the shadowy groups.

President Mugabe and First Lady Amai Dr Grace Mugabe are welcomed by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko at Heroes Day commemorations in Harare yesterday.— (Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

Felex Share Senior Reporter
President Mugabe yesterday called for unity and peace amongZimbabweans saying violent protests being engineered by opposition parties and shadowy groups to subvert Government would come to naught.

Addressing thousands of people gathered at the National Heroes’ Acre to celebrate Heroes’ Day, President Mugabe said a constitutionally-elected Government could only be removed through democratic elections not Arab spring type of protests.

He said while it was everyone’s constitutional right to hold demonstrations, they should be done in a peaceful manner.

“Let us remain united in defence of our sovereignty, in defence of what our national heroes fought for,” President Mugabe said.

“We should remain united, remain cognisant of the fact that without unity we cannot make much progress. There will be divisions, quarrelling, fighting, violence and that is why things like protests don’t pay because usually they end up being violent protests. Zvinobatsirei kuti muende mumigwagwa mune chinangwa chekuti muratidze kuti munogona kupotsera matombo, munogona kurova mapurisa nematombo? Tinodarirei? We don’t want that!”

He added: “If it is a police sanctioned demonstration, let it be done in a peaceful manner. If it is a political party seeking relevance and recognition, it is allowed but for them to stone people and property, it is not allowed. We don’t want that violence. Joining hands to foment chaos to effect regime change as is being done in some Arab countries will never be tolerated. Ko vote yaenda kupi yakaisvonaka? Hamuchada vote? Ko, ndoodemocracyka! Makanganwa nhasi democracy? Ndakanzwa vaTsvangirai vachiti ngatibatanei tiite coalition tigoita maprotests ndiyo nzira chete yatingaputse nayo hurumende. Kureva kuti matadza pamaelections kukurira hurumende, kukurira Zanu-PF.”

President Mugabe said Zanu-PF was a people-oriented party that would never be pushed out of power through violent protests.

“It is true Zanu-PF is the people’s party,” he said.

“It is a party with strong roots, of which the roots are those lying here and the blood that was shed during the war. Makuva haasi ekutamba nawo awa. Ane nyaya, ane hurukuro yakakosha nenhoroondo yekutambudzika, yekurwira vazhinji. Zimbabwe will never be a colony again and these are the words being said by those lying here.”

President Mugabe commended the country’s security sectors for maintaining law and order.

“When all is said and done, what is important is in our circumstances we have peace, law and order and we praise our security forces for that,” he said.

“We praise them for the calm there has been, the peace there has been but we praise them also for fulfilling international obligations by subscribing members to both regional and international peace support operations. Thus, under the auspices of sadc, African Union and United Nations our security forces continue to raise the Zimbabwean flag high.”

President Mugabe said to consolidate the sacrifices made by the country’s freedom fighters, Government was implementing various strategies to boost economic performance and empower people.

He said it was unfortunate that some misguided people were blaming Government for sanctions and weather-induced challenges such as El Nino.

“Government is not responsible for the rains but it tries by all means to ensure no one starves,” he said.

“No matter which political party you support, you should get food. If the food is there, it is your right to get it, But if it is not enough, don’t say it is being given to Zanu-PF members only simply because you belong to MDC, People First or People Second. I assure you that no Zimbabwean will starve.”

President Mugabe said Government’s Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016 was there to stay as it was meant to protect and resuscitate the local industry.

He said the measures, which would be reviewed from time to time, would see the manufacturing sector’s capacity utilisation remaining stable.

“Already some notable investments have been made in edible oils, milk powder, drinks and beverages and clothing and footwear,” the President said.

“Our people have been producing be it tomatoes but their products were rotting because people were importing cheap products from South Africa. Goods are cheap there because the Rand has been losing value against the United States dollar. That being the case does it mean that our farmers should stop farming?”

President Mugabe said reforms being implemented in the mining sector were targeted at plugging leakages of the country’s mineral resources.

He said the health sector continued to receive attention from Government and development partners with 35 clinics being completed this year.

“The education sector on the other hand is moving forward with the implementation of the new curriculum which will come into effect in January 2017,” he said.

“The new curriculum responds to the values, knowledge and skills needs of learners and the socio-economic requirements of the nation. In higher education, it is the intention of Government that every province in Zimbabwean should have a state university, a polytechnic and a teacher’s college.”

President Mugabe said plans were at an advanced stage to establish a Women’s Microfinance Bank to enable women in mining, trade, agriculture, health and tourism to actively participate in economic activities.

He said Government valued the contributions of civil servants and would implement programmes to improve their welfare and conditions of service.

President Mugabe said measures to avoid delays in the payment of civil servants’ salaries were being developed.

PRESIDENT MUGABE . . . My Government is fully aware that the economy is operating under very challenging conditions

President Mugabe’s full Address on the occasion of Heroes Day, National Heroes Acre, August 8, 2016

Honourable Vice President Comrade Emmerson Mnangagwa and Amai;

Honourable Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko and Amai;

Honourable President of the Senate Mai Edna Madzongwe;

Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly Advocate Jacob Mudenda;

The Chief Justice Honourable Godfrey Chidyausiku;

Families of the national heroes;

Honourable Minister of Metropolitan Province of Harare Mai Mirriam Chikukwa;

Honourable Ministers here present;

Honourable Members of Parliament;

Service Chiefs;

Families of heroes of the Zimbabwe national liberation struggle,

War Veterans; War Collaborators; Ex-detainees and Restrictees;

Our traditional leaders here present;

Your Excellencies, members of the Diplomatic Corps;

Esteemed Foreign Guests and visitors;

Ladies and gentleman;

Comrades and friends.

TODAY, as per our tradition, we are gathered here at the National Heroes’ Shrine and at various shrines throughout the country and in neighbouring countries. We continue to honour our heroes and heroines of the liberation struggle, the gallant sons and daughters of Zimbabwe who fought fearlessly to dislodge the racist settler colonial regime.

They sacrificed their lives and brought freedom and independence to the people of Zimbabwe.

Fellow Zimbabweans, comrades and friends, in order to consolidate the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters, Government is implementing and has taken various strategies and measures to boost the economic performance and to empower our people.

In spite of the challenges we face due to the liquidity crunch, current economic performance indicates some modest milestones, with growth being driven by key sectors, such as agriculture, mining, tourism, industry and construction.

Hongu, pazuva ranhasi tinenge tichiyeuka magamba edu. Tinenge tichiyeuka zvikurukuru kuzvipira kwavakaita kuti zuva ranhasi rizovapo. Zvichireva kuti rusununguko rwatava narwo rwugovapo. Tinenge tichiyeukawo zvakare kuti mukurwira nyika iyi, kwakanga kusina nyaya yekuti ava vari kwavo ava vari kwavo, kwete! Vakanga vakabatana, vari pamwe chete, nekuti nzira yakanga iri imwe chete, chinangwa chiri chimwe chete. Mhuri inorwirwa iri imwe chete, mhuri yeZimbabwe.

Kubatana uku kuti zvese zvatataura izvi zviri kuitwa nehurumende kuda kukwidziridza hupfumi hwenyika hazvingareve chinhu kana tisina kubatana tichiti ava vari kwavo, ava vari kwavo.

Zvinorevawo kuti kunyangwe tiine mapazi emhuri dzedu muno munyika vamwe vachinzi vangave vaKaranga, vangave vaZezuru, vangave vaManyika, vangave maNdebele, vangave maKorekore, vangave vaNdau, vaVenda, vaTonga, ndihwo hwupfumi hwatinahwo hweculture yedu.

Hazvireve kuti kupasanidzwa pakuva vanhu veZimbabwe, pakuva tose pazvinangwa zvenyika yedu, pakuonana takafanana. Saka tichiti ngatirambei tiri mugwara iroro rakatarwa nevarume nemadzimai vari pano, vakazvipira vachibva kunzvimbo dzakasiyanasiyana.

Tinge tichionana zvisinei kuti unobva kuregion iyi, unobva kunzvimbo iyi. Ko, ndozvataisungirwawo kuitaka. Kuti nzvimbo dzese dzigarwe zvisinei kuti unotaura mutauro uyu wakasiyana nevamwe, zvisinei kuti unoenda kuchurch ipi kana ipi, asi dziri church dzakanangana nezwi raMwari.

Kwete dzimwe dzemazuva ano dzakanangana nemari, dzinopembedza mari kupfuura Mwari.

Tinotenda shoko ratapihwa namufundisi ranhasi. Tive vanhu vanoona kuti nyika ndeyedu tose, naizvozvo hurumende kana ichiedza zvainoedza kuita kuti tibudirire, inenge ichiedzera izvozvo, ichizama nekwayo kuzamira mhuri yose yeZimbabwe.

Kana tava nenjodzi ingatipinde, takaita njodzi yemasanctions yataramba tinayo. Kozouya njodzi yekushaya mvura zvoreva kuti zvekudya zvinenge zvoshomeka. Tova neruzivo rwokuti dambudziko renyika kana rouya rauyira tose.

Kwete kuzoti rauya, tobva toti aahh, hurumende heyo yatadza kuita basa.

Hurumende haisiriyo inonaisa mvura, kwete. Asika chionai. Zvadaro, inozama nekuzama kwainogona nako kuti mhuri irarame, kwese kwese. Hazvinei kuti uyu uyu ndewe party ipi kana ipi. Tinenge tichida kuti ararame, adye achirarama.

Kana chakawanda, ngaadye achiita dumbu, hazvirambidzwe. Asi kana chakashomeka, aah, tininge tichiti hachitikwanire. Saka chisina kukukwanira iwe kana uri weMDC kana uri People First kana People Second, usashore. Usati aiwa, aahh, chikafu chakupiwa veZanu-PF chete. Handizvo. Handi chokwadi. Endai mumamana, handizvo zvatiri kuita. Handizvo zviri patsika yedu, maitiro edu, pamabatiro edu enyika. Handizvowo zvakare zviripo. Kana tichitevera shoko raMwari raparidzwa pano nhasi, tose tiri vana venyika.

Economic activity in the agriculture-related sectors remains subdued owing to the El Nino weather phenomenon, which was characterised by low and erratic rainfall.

This resulted in reduced agriculture production thereby negatively affecting the food and nutrition security situation in the country. In view of this Government is committed to pursuing strategies that guarantee food security in rural and urban households.

Government will continue to import grain enough to feed our people. Our people, all our people and I am sure no Zimbabwean citizen will starve.

With regard to cropping beginning with the 2016/ 2017 agricultural season, Government will pursue command agriculture in order to ensure food security and maize supply self-sufficiency.

The programme targets producing a minimum of two million metric tonnes of maize from 400 000 hectares of irrigated land. Prompt payments for grain delivered by farmers to the Grain Marketing Board will continue so as to assist farmers to prepare for the oncoming season.

My Government is fully aware that the economy is operating under very challenging conditions. As such, we recently gazetted Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016 which seeks to manage the importation of certain products as a way of supporting and resuscitating the local industry.

The manufacturing sector’s capacity utilisation is expected to remain generally stable on the back of these measures which will be reviewed from time to time.

Already, some notable investments have been made in edible oils, milk powder, drinks and beverages and clothing and footwear. Ehee, takaita yandati Statutory Instrument 64, murawo wakaitwa unokwaniswa kuitwa neHurumende asi uchibvumirwa uripasi pemumwe murawo mukuru unenge wapasiswa neParliament.

Uyu wakaitwa kuti tibatsire nyika yedu, tibatsire vanhu vedu vanorima angave madomasi nezvimwe zvakadaro zvinotengeswa muno munyika.

Zvanga zvaakuora pamusana pekuti kwanga kuine vamwe vakaona kuti zvekuSouth Africa zvakachipa kupfuura zvedu. Zvingachipeka nekuti ivo rand ravo rakadzika pasi saka rino demwa nedollar. Dollar rimwe chete kuSouth Africa ukaenda naro unopiwa maRand anopfuura 10 kana kuti kusvika 15.

Naizvozvo nedollar rimwe chete, unokwanisa kutenga zvimwe zvinhu zvakachipa kuSouth Africa.

Zvingachipe hongu, zvinosvikawo zvichiuya muno munyika zvakachipa kudaro. Ko, vedu vanga vachirima muno zvimwe zvinotengwa nemadollar votokanda pasika mapadza? Kuvabatsira ikoko? Zvino yakava nyaya.

Hoo, hapana zvakabva zvapindirirwawo, ndonyaya yanga ichirambwa namufundisi vativerengera Bible apa navanonzi VaMawarire. Hameno kwavakabva nako, ndangovanzwawo zvonzi ahh, ndivo vabva vauya vachisvetukira nyaya idzi.

Kuti haa, vanhu havanganzarwo, ngakuregerwe vachitenga zvavanoda ikoko. Zvino zvakadaro hapana nyika pasi pano isingazvidzivirire. Hapana, hapana! Nyika dzose pasi pano hadzibvume kuti zvinhu zvakachipa zvingouya munyika yadzo.

Ah ah, ndiyo yavanoti dumping iyoyo. Hatidi isisu kuti dumping-wo iitwe muno umu. Zvimwe chetezvo nezvimbatya zvinongouya, zvesecond hand. Zvimwe munozviti chii? Mazitye, zvimwe zvinobva nekuChina zvakachipa. Maizviti chii?

Zvose izvozvo. Zvino kana muine mbatya, muchiita mafactory anoita mbatya, mungave nesecond hand, hamungade kuti mazitye apinde anotadzisaka ava vane mbatya dzakanaka ava.

Ndozvazviri izvo. Zvino moti ahh, nekuti vanhu vedu vanga vakuchemawo kuti taakunorasa zvirimwa zvedu nekuti zveSouth Africa zviri kupinda zvakawandisa. Asi kana tisingarime muno, ahh, tingagoti tiri kuitei tichirambidza kuti kana zviri zvokudya zvichiuya muno umu?

Huku dzinobva kuBrazil dzine jekiseni yemvura mukati kuti dzifute dzohodhwa kuSouth Africa, dzonzi dzakachipa dzouya kuno?

Zvino vanhu vari mumabasa vanongoti zvakatichipira kugocha, ehe but isu tinenge tichiti kwete, tinadzo huku dzakawanda, mazai azere tinawo muno akawanda, nyama yenguruve izere yakawanda.

Ndiyo protection yatakaita pamurau iwoyu Statutory Instrument 64. Kana veSouth Africa vakachemawo vachiti, aah, zvino makuitasei. Asi isuwo tine mishonga yatai producer kuno veSouth Africa uko vachiti aah, hatidi iuye by road. Ngaiuye nendege kuti isvikeko yaakudhura. Mazviona?

Saka vekuno vakabva vati ko zvino hukama hwedu huripapi, kana muchida kudzivirirawo zvatinoita? Saka izvi ndezvekutaurirana izvi nehama dzedu dzekuSouth Africa.

While the mining sector is critical to the economic development of Zimbabwe, it remained subdued during the first half of the year. This is mainly due to the declining international prices, inadequate capital and the high cost of power. The situation is expected to improve especially given the growth of gold whose output is expected to improve from 20,2 tonnes produced last year to 25,5 tonnes expected to be produced this year.

Government will also implement mining reforms, which are targeted at plugging leakages of our mineral resources.

Makorokoza edu vanokorokoza hupfumi hwenyika hwakawanda, goridhe. Asi veSouth Africa vanogarira ikoko kuti tengesai, huyai naro mutengese kuno. Zvinenge zvichiitwa nemabhunu aikoko, kwete vatema. Mabhunu aikoko ndiwo ane maarrangements iwaya. Zvimwe zvinoitwa husiku tundege tuchiuya musango, mumafarm umu.

Kututa goridhe rinenge racherwa nevanhu vedu nekuti vanenge vachiti tinopihwa mari yakawanda ikoko, zvino izvozvo kubirana, hatizvidi.

In order to promote both domestic and foreign direct investment, Government is implementing various measures such as the Ease of Doing Business Reforms and establishment of a fully operational One-Stop-Shop Investment Centre.

Government has also actively sought to enhance the involvement of the Zimbabwean Diaspora in the national development process by the establishment of the National Diaspora Policy which has now been approved.

Comrades and Friends in the tourism sector, Government is working on a number of programmes, which are aimed at attracting foreign tourism, as well as improving Domestic Tourism.

This should see an increase in the level of local visitorship to our own tourist’s attractions, and also ensure that tourism contributes significantly to poverty reduction and development in different communities.

The health sector continues to receive attention from Government and development partners. To this end, 35 new clinics were completed this year with the support of the communities, Community Ownership Share Trust Funds, Rural District councils and donors.

The education sector, on the other hand, is moving forward with the implementation of the new curriculum which will come into effect in January 2017. The new curriculum responds to the values, knowledge and skills needs of learners and the socio-economic requirements of the nation.

In higher education, I am pleased to note that Zimbabwe now boasts 10 State universities and six non-State universities. It is the intention of Government that every province in Zimbabwe should have a State university, a polytechnic and a teacher’s college.

It is also pleasing to note that parliamentary Bills for new universities namely the Bill covering Manicaland University of Applied Sciences and that of Gwanda State University are at various stages of approval.

Comrades and friends, Government has active plans to implement various training and empowerment programmes aimed at providing meaningful opportunities for the youths and women across the country. Plans are at an advanced stage to establish a women’s micro-finance bank.

This will enable women in various sectors such as agriculture, trade, mining, health and tourism to participate actively in economic activities. Further, Government strengthens and supports Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Co-operatives.

Ladies and gentlemen, the energy and power situation in Zimbabwe has improved significantly in 2016. This mainly due to various measures Government has recently implemented. Government has embarked on the Kariba South Power Station Extension Project, which is on target for completion by 2018 and the Hwange Power Station which is set to commence by year end.

These two projects alone when completed, should add 900 Megawatts to the national grid.

Meanwhile, the Rural Electrification Programme has so far connected 8 579 Government institutions, but 3 580 institutions, mainly primary schools, are yet to be electrified countrywide.

Fellow Zimbabweans, comrades and friends; in terms of road infrastructure, I am pleased to note and inform you that meaningful strides have been made to improve national highways and rural gravel roads.

In this regard, I note with satisfaction, the dualisation, the completion of the rehabilitation and widening of the 823km between Plumtree and Bulawayo-Harare-Mutare Road and the recent opening of the Harare-Goromonzi road dualisation.

Further, Government is committed to recapitalise the National Railways of Zimbabwe in order to improve the transportation of bulk goods by rail.

Ladies and gentlemen, in Information Communication Technology sector, Government is accelerating the establishment of Community Information Centres throughout the country. To date, there are functional such centres in Murombedzi, Mapisa, Mutoko, Rusape, Mupandawana and Muzarabani, Sadza and Mubaira.

Community Information Centres are very important as you know for purposes of giving information about the local areas.

Comrade and friends; Government values the contribution of civil servants in the public sector, and as such, will implement programmes to improve their welfare and conditions of service. Measures to avoid delays in payment of salaries for civil servants are being developed.

In international relations, Government has been vigorously strengthening bilateral relations within Sadc, the AU and the Brics countries. Zimbabwe also stands ready to renew economic and political relations with the International Finance Institutions and other bilateral relations.

Ladies and gentlemen, when all is said and done, what is important is, in our circumstances, we have peace, law and order. And we praise our security forces for that. We praise them for the calm there has been, the peace there has been. But we praise them also for fulfilling international obligations by subscribing members to both regional and international peace support operations.

Tine vanhu vanobva muchiuto, vanobva muchipurisa vanenge vachidiwa kunyika dzirikubatsirwa neUnited Nations kune maforces eUnited Nations. Kunojoina ikoko, saka tinopa International peace operations support under Sadc, the African Union and the United Nations also.

And in this way they continue to raise the Flag of Zimbabwe very high, makorokoto.

Fellow Zimbabweans, comrades and friends; as we commemorate our Heroes’ Day, it is incumbent upon us all, to remain steadfast in our efforts to promote the image of our country in the region and beyond. So, we call for peace.

I call for peace and unity among Zimbabweans. Let us remain united in defence of our sovereignty, in defence of what our national heroes fought for. We should remain united, remain cognisant of the fact that without unity we cannot make much progress. There will be divisions, quarrelling, fighting, violence and that is why things like protests don’t pay. Because usually they end up being violent protests.

Zvinobatsirei kuti muende mumugwagwa mune chinangwa chekuti muratidze kuti munogona kukanda matombo? Kupotsera matombo? Munogona kurova mapurisa nematombo? Tinenge tisingade izvozvo. Kunorova mashops evanhu, mabusiness edu atinawo? Kazhinji ndizvo zvinoitika izvozvo.

Mota dzinorohwa nematombo sekunge vanhu vasati vasanduka, tinodarirei? Kana iri demonstration yabvumirwa nemapurisa, ngaiitwe nemutowo kwawo, vanhu vakanyarara. Kwete senge sezvana Mawarire, zvekuti aah, vanhu mukai muende mumugwagwa muchiita violence. Hatizvide.

But kana zvadaro, iri party iri kudaro tinenge tisina nemhosva neparty kana ichidawo kuorganiser kuti aah, ionekwe kuti iriko, “musakanganwe kuti tiripowo”. Asi zvekuzoti vatore matombo hatizvide. Hatidi violence iyoyo. Zvekuti vabatane vachikokana kuti huyai tiite hovhiyo sezvirikuitwa kunyika dzekumaArab. Zvichinzi ndozvinoita kuti tikwanise kuputsa hurumende.

Ko, vote yaenda kupi yakaisvonaka? Hamuchada vote? Ko ndiyo democracy ka. Makanganwa nhasi democracy? Ndakanzwa vaTsvangirai vachiti ngatibatanei tiite coalition, tigoita maprotests. Ndiyo nzira chete yatingaputse nayo hurumende. Kureva kuti matadza pamaelection kukurira hurumende, kukurira Zanu-PF ka?

Ehe, chiri chokwadiwo, ipartyka yevanhu Zanu-PF, iparty ine midzi. Iyi midzi iyi, ndoiri pano midzi yacho iyi. Neropa rakadeuka riri pano iri. Makuva haasi ekutamba nawo aya. Aah, ane nyaya, ane hurukuro yakakosha.

Nhoroondo yemberi, yekutambudzika, yekurwira vazhinji, yekuti nyika ibve mumaoko evavengi, iuye nhasi uno mumaoko edu.

Kuti bhunhu riye raisimbovhaira richiti murume oga oga “boy, boy”, mai voga voga vainzi “nanny nanny”, radhamba. Rakadhambiswa! Ivhu rauya mumaoko evanhu, vanhu vatora nyika yavo yechizvarwa. Haichabva mumaoko avo zvakare and Zimbabwe will never be a colony again.

Ndooshoko ravari kutaura varume nemadzimai vari pano apa. Kuti nhoroondo iyi chengetedzai. Mugare muchiyeuka. Tiri kuvayeuka nhasi uno, tichizvipira kuti aewa hatitsauke, hatikurasei, tinemi, tinemi nyangwe muri pasi apa.

Asi tsoka dzenyu dzamakasiya, tinoramba tichidzitevedza. So,let us remain united in defence of our sovereignty and hard won independence and say once again, to our heroes, I will no longer say it’s a day of mourning.

It’s indeed a celebration of our heroes and we say to them you did well and today is a happy Heroes’ Day for us. True, we will remember you in all solemnity, when we say our prayers. But we are happy that you left us a legacy, a huge, huge legacy and with that we can proudly say, as I say:

Long live Zimbabwe!

Long live our freedom!

Long live our sovereignty!

Makorokoto!

Amhlope!

Congratulations!

I thank you.

Thousands of Zimbabweans cheer President Mugabe and First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe on arrival for Heroes Day commemorations at the National Heroes Acre in Harare yesterday

Zvamaida Murwira Senior Reporter—
THOUSANDS of Zimbabweans yesterday thronged the National Heroes’ Acre in Harare and provincial shrines in the other nine provinces to commemorate Heroes’ Day in honour of fallen heroes who fought to liberate Zimbabwe from the shackles of colonial rule.It was a 90-year struggle that culminated in independence and majority rule on April 18, 1980.

Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Constantino Guvheya Nyikadzino Chiwenga, Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Air Force of Zimbabwe Commander Air Marshall Perrance Shiri, Police Deputy Commissioner-General Levy Sibanda and Commissioner-General of Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, Retired Major General Paradzai Zimondi follow proceedings during Heroes Day commemorations at the National Heroes Acre in Harare yesterday

While there were celebrations in other parts of the country, President Mugabe presided over the main event in Harare where he delivered the keynote address.

Vice Presidents Emmerson Mnangagwa, Phelekezela Mphoko and their spouses, Government ministers, Members of Parliament, traditional leaders, service chiefs, senior Government officials, Zanu-PF supporters, diplomats, members of the Apostolic sect and members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces were among multitudes that attended yesterday’s event.

Proceedings started with bus-loads of people from different parts of the city and it’s environs thronging the national shrine.

Beitbridge Senator Tambudzani Mohadi lays a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during Heroes Day celebrations at Makakavule District shrine yesterday

There were thick columns stretching several kilometres along Bulawayo Road as people walked to the national shrine for the event. There was an overflow of people with those who failed to secure places in the terraces, perching themselves on trees, Zaccheus-style, to follow proceedings.

Proceedings started after President Mugabe, accompanied by First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe, arrived just before midday. He immediately inspected a quarter guard of honour mounted by the Presidential Guard before the Zimbabwe Republic Police band led the crowd in singing the National Anthem.

Artillery Brigade Soldiers fire a 21-Gun Salute in honour of Heroes at Bindura Provincial Heroes Acre yesterday

Home Affairs Minister Dr Ignatius Chombo was the director of ceremony. There were two fly-pasts during the National Anthem by the Air Force of Zimbabwe, the first by three fighter jets immediately followed by three helicopters.

Thereafter, the Zimbabwe Republic Police chaplin general, Assistant Commissioner Jeremiah Doyce delivered a sermon which castigated some church leaders for dabbling in politics instead of spreading the word.

Suluman Chimbetu and Orchestra Dendera Kings entertain the crowd at Chinhoyi Provincial Heroes Acre where his father and founder of the group Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu lies buried yesterday

Asst Comm Doyce, who based his sermon on Ezekiel 22 v 30 and Isaiah 32 v 22, urged religious leaders to stick to ministering religion and not stray into politics while preaching.

Reverend Paul Damasane recited a revolutionary poem thereafter as President Mugabe to his place in the VVIP tent. President Mugabe got a standing ovation when he rose to deliver his wide-ranging keynote address that centred on keeping the legacy of the revolution alive and defending the gains of independence and sovereignty.

Dutch Ambassador to Zimbabwe Gera Sneller (right) walks past a poster inscribed with a message which denounces foreign meddling in Zimbabwe’s internal affairs

The President, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the ZDF, paid tribute to the security services for ensuring that Zimbabwe remained peaceful. The crowd was treated to entertainment by several choral groups.

The United Methodist Choir put up a sterling performance with its hit song “Mazambara” which brought several people including dignitaries on their feet and singing along. Members of the group left the crowd crying for more with their scintillating dancing routine.

Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa and wife Auxillia follow proceedings at the event

Leaders of the opposition parties serve for Harare Mayor Cllr Bernard Manyenyeni were, however, conspicuous by their absence despite the commemoration being a national event which should ordinarily draw everyone across the political divide.

After his speech, President Mugabe led leaders of Government arms in laying wreaths on the Tomb of the Unknown soldier before he visited some graves of fallen heroes among them his first wife, Sally Heyfron Mugabe and Sister Sabina who are among the eight women intered at the national shrine.

President Mugabe and First Lady Amai Dr Grace Mugabe are welcomed by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko at Heroes Day commemorations in Harare yesterday.— (Picture by Tawanda Mudimu)

Some of those that laid wreaths were National Assembly Speaker Advocate Jacob Mudenda, Senate president Cde Edna Madzongwe, Chief Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku, Minister of Welfare Services for War Veterans, War Collaborators, former Political detainees and Restrictees Tshinga Dube, service chiefs, among others.

Relatives of national heroes stood by the graves of their dear departed laying wreaths.

But relatives of the late General Solomon Mujuru were conspicouos by their absence even though the late general’s widow, Dr Joice Mujuru, yesterday issued a statement on the occasion of Heroes Day in wihich she sought to cast aspersions on the Government from her trench as leader of the opposition Zimbabwe People First party.

Leaders of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans’ Association led by Mr Christopher Mutsvangwa, who has of late been consorting with opposition groups following his expulsion from Zanu-PF, were also conspicuous by their absence.

There were several colourful banners with a number of messages among them, “No to Abuse of Social Media,” Residential Stands to the People,” “Sando Dzenyu Magamba,” Ma inputs Kuvanhu Tirime.” Others included “Unity, Peace and Development, Fruits of our Liberation struggle,” You Fought, You Won, Now We Defend,” and “Zimbabwe Ngeyegazi.”

President Mugabe and First Lady Dr Grace Mugabe greet the crowds during the ZDF Day Celebrations at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. – Picture by John Manzongo

Updates by Elita Chikwati and Costa Mano

1342: The entertainment continues and afterwards the football match between ZDF Select and Caps United will bring a close to proceedings at the National Sports Stadium. However, we now conclude our updates. Thank you for joining us.

1329: Macheso is now back on stage and the crowd goes wild.

1320: The Air Force of Zimbabwe entertains the crowd with impressive landing of Paratroopers in the National Sports Stadium

A parachutist dropping during the ZDF Day Celebrations at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. – Picture by John Manzongo

 1310: Alick Macheso is now entertaining the crowd

1301: The parade is now marching off.

1257: The National Anthem is now being sung.

1257: The President has finished his speech.

1256: “Our forces are often deployed under the auspices of international bodies like the United Nations….our soldiers without exception have demonstrated the highest level of discipline, they indeed make us proud,”

1251: “Although the war of liberation ended 36 years ago, our country is still faced with remnants of war in the for m o f unexploded ordinates particularly so along our border with Mozambique where our ZDF is involved in demining….they provide support to ZRP in the guarding of the country’s key installations,”

1247: President Mugabe says “This present united army was born out of integration of the previous warring forces of Zanla and Zipra on one side and the Rhodesian forces on the other….the integration was done in an environment that was not only tense but fraught with suspicion,”

1242: Dr Sydney Sekeramayi has returned to the podium and he has asked the President to address the nation.

1208: The parade is now marching in slow and quick time.

1205: The National Anthem is now being sung.

1201: The colours have been presented and the Air Force is now flying over with their own colours while drummers are now collecting the drums they had piled.

President Mugabe officially handing over a flag during a colour presentation to ZDF Formations while Commander ZDF General Constantino, Nyikadzino Chiwenga look on during the ZDF Day Celebrations at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. – Picture by John Manzongo

1156: President Mugabe is now presenting the colours.

1145: Dr Sekeremayi says the Force has become formidable over the years earning praise and respect in foreign missions. He says the ZDF has prepared an entertaining programme that includes a football  match between ZDF select against Caps United. He assures the nation that the ZDF will remain resolute in defence of the nation’s sovereignty.

He has now invited President Mugabe to present the colours.

1138: He has now invited the Minister of Defence Dr Sydney Sekeremayi.

1137: He says the celebrations are unique because of the presentation of colours which in other words is presentation of flags. They represent a particular formation, regiment or unit as sign of  honour and dedication to duty, they are not ordinary flags. They are commissioned and presented by the Commander in Chief. The first colours were presented immediately after independence in 1980.

1133: Brigadier-General Douglas Nyikayaramba is now on the podium.

1114: The parade is now showcasing “The Piling of Drums” which is part of the military’s tradition.

1100: President Mugabe is now inspecting the parade.

A dance troupe at the National Sports Stadium. Picture by Elita Chikwati

1059: The Parade Commander is now reporting on the make up of the parade to the Commander in Chief and has asked for permission for the parade to be inspected.

1057: The National Anthem is now being sung. 

An Airforce of Zimbabwe helicopter flying past with Airforce flag during the ZDF Day Celebrations at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. – Picture by John Manzongo

1053: The Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces President Mugabe arrives and is accompanied by the ZDF Commander General Constantino Chiwenga.

1050: First Lady Dr Grace Mugabe has arrived in the company of her sons Robert and Chatunga as well as son-in-law Simbarashe Chikore

1040: VP Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived.

1036: VP Phelekezela Mphoko has arrived.

Foreign Defence Attachees taking a salute during the ZDF Day Celebrations at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. – Picture by John Manzongo

1035: Thousands of people have gathered at the National Sports Stadium.

0955: We will be giving you live updates from the National Sports Stadium on the Defence Forces Day celebrations. People from all walks of life are making their way into the stadium for today’s celebrations.

Elita Chikwati : Senior Reporter

Zimbabweans and diplomats accredited to the country, yesterday applauded the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for maintaining peace and stability in the country for the past 36 years, despite the sanctions-induced economic hardships the country is experiencing. Diplomats, local leaders and members of the public who attended the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ 36th anniversary at the National Sports Stadium in Harare yesterday, cherished the peace and stability Zimbabwe has enjoyed over the years.Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mohamed Cheij Saleh, congratulated Zimbabweans for maintaining peace for the past 36 years.

He said the maintenance of peace was one of the greatest achievements of the liberation struggle.

“This is a great achievement for Zimbabwe after its independence. This achievement is a result of love and the sacrifice of the people of Zimbabwe.

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“As a representative of the Republic of Saharawi, the people who are still fighting for independence and the last colony in Africa, I am so proud to see and witness the peace in Zimbabwe. This shows there is capacity in Africa. Zimbabwe has made progress even in its Constitution. I hope this will lead to more progress in the country,” he said.

The United Nations resident coordinator Bishow Parajuli, applauded Zimbabwe for its contributions towards the maintenance of peace internationally.

“The ZDF is an important division that has contributed to international peace. The army is important for peace and tranquillity and security for every country,” he said.

French Ambassador to Zimbabwe Laurent Delahousse said, Zimbabweans were blessed to live in a peaceful country since Independence.

He expressed gratitude to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for participating in international peace keeping missions and urged them to continue abiding by the Constitution even under economic hardships.

“Zimbabwe has been blessed in the past 36 years not to experience outside aggression. As France, we have been grateful to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for participating in international peacekeeping operations. Zimbabwe is very active.

“It is true that today we have budgetary constraints, and it is more difficult, but I hope that Zimbabwe will maintain peace and will continue to contribute to peacekeeping in Africa, and all over the world.

“The army in any country is a very important institution. The army keeps peace, order and also contributes to peace- keeping inside the country. The army should be a constitutional organisation that abides by the law and that is not supposed to be involved in political matters. The army is a State institution and not a party institution and I hope the army will continue in the same spirit of maintaining peace in Zimbabwe,” he said.

The country’s traditional leadership said Zimbabweans were now living peacefully in the country because of the Defence Forces.

They said people were independent to participate in different activities unlike during the colonial regime where they were restricted even to walk in some areas.

Chief Chimukoko of Mudzi said she was grateful for the peace that was prevailing in the country because of the efforts of the Defence Forces.

“We hope we will maintain this peace. Freedom fighters and the defence forces are important and we should cherish their contributions,” she said.

Chief Chundu of Hurungwe said Zimbabweans now had the freedom to freely walk in their country and participate in economic activities.

“We were in bondage before Independence, but because of other people’s sacrifices we now enjoy peace,” he said.

Harare resident, Mrs Lorene Magadu, said Zimbabwe was peaceful unlike other countries that were always at war.

“I was born just before Independence, and I have enjoyed peace. I hope we will not experience any civil unrest or wars in future. Some countries are not stable and people are perishing because of the wars and unrest. This is different from Zimbabwe where we carry out our daily routines without fear,” she said.

Mr Phineas Mungava said he was grateful to the ZDF not only for maintaining peace, but also for engaging in other non military activities.

“The army is also assisting the less privileged, and building schools in different areas. Even during strikes, we see them at hospitals saving lives. I am grateful to the forces and I hope Zimbabweans will give them due respect,” he said.

This picture collage shows Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces President Mugabe presenting colours to various military units and formations and the capacity crowd at the 60 000-seater National Sports Stadium where the 36th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces was commemorated in Harare yesterday

• President presents colours to regiments  •. . . force’s loyalty, dedication hailed

Herald Reporters

Hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans from all walks of life yesterday thronged different venues countrywide to celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day, with the main event being held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces were formed just after independence in 1980 through the amalgamation of the victorious revolutionary Zanla and Zipra forces as well as the vanquished Rhodesian Front.Provincial ministers and senior civil servants read the President’s speech in events held in the country’s other nine provinces.

It was a colourful event in Harare at the 60 000-seater National Sports Stadium that was punctuated with entertainment from Mbare Chimurenga Choir, and sungura musician Alick Macheso and parachute jumping from members of the Air Force of Zimbabwe.

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Soccer fans were treated to a match between CAPS United and Zimbabwe Defence Forces Select.

Official proceedings started after the arrival of President Mugabe, First Lady Dr Grace Mugabe and Vice Presidents Emmerson Mnangagwa and Phelekezela Mphoko at the venue together with other senior officials at around 10am.

Soon after his arrival, President Mugabe, who is the Commander-in-chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, rode the command rover and inspected the guard of honour in the company of ZDF Commander General Constantino Guvheya Chiwenga.

The inspection was followed by the presentation of colours to various regiments by President Mugabe.

In military terms, the word “colours” is used to describe different flags of various brigades, regiments and independent units.

Traditionally, colours were carried into battlefields for location purposes by soldiers of a particular regiment or unit, but now they constitute symbols of the regiment’s honour and signify its devotion to duty.

The occasion, which was the centre of attraction at the main celebrations at the National Sports Stadium, started with the piling of the flags after which representatives from the Zimbabwe National Army delivered a powerful national prayer in Shona and Ndebele.

The colours were then consecrated and the ceremony was signed off by a flyover by an AFZ Cassa aircraft amid wild cheers from the capacity crowd.

Defence Minister Sydney Sekeramayi said in military circles, colours were important to instil discipline and loyalty.

He gave a brief account of corporate social responsibility works being undertaken by the ZDF in various parts of the country.

Major General Douglas Nyikayaramba said yesterday’s event was an historic one.

“The colours are regarded with great reverence, hence represent the heart and spirit of the formation,” he said.

“These colours are not ordinary flags but are unique significant symbols of honour, which are commissioned and presented by none other than the Head of State and Government and Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces.”

Maj Gen Nyikayamba said the first colours in independent Zimbabwe were presented to the Zimbabwe National Army and the Airforce of Zimbabwe after the attainment of Independence in 1980.

He said the second conferment of colours was on 0ctober 30, 1981 to the commando battalion and the third was during the fifth anniversary of the Force in 1986.

Said Maj Gen Nyikayaramba: “The newly formed brigades, with units under their command and other independent units could not be conferred their respective colours due to some pressing operational commitments.

“Today, all the formations of the ZNA including units under command and two regiments are paraded before us to receive their colours in style.”

The colours were presented to 1 to 5 Infantry brigades, the Presidential Guards Brigade, Mechanised Infantry Brigade, Artillery Brigade, Harare and Bulawayo districts, Parachute regiment and the Mounted Infantry regiment.

Maj Gen Nyikayaramba said the second phase of the presentation would be held during the commissioning of the parade at the Zimbabwe Military Academy in May next year where one air defence regiment and the major training schools of the Zimbabwe National Army would also be presented their colours.

Maj Gen Nyikayaramba added: “Your Excellency, we humbly assure you that by committing these colours to our charge, they will be jealously guarded, revered and that we will be faithful to the spirit and tradition to which they are enshrined both during peace time and in war.”

After the presentation, the parade marched in slow and quick time before Defence Minister Sydney Sekeramayi introduced President Mugabe to deliver his keynote address.

In Chinhoyi, a bumper crowd gathered at Chinhoyi Stadium to mark Defence Forces Day amid pomp and fanfare.

Mashonaland West Minister of State Cde Faber Chidarikire led proceedings by first inspecting a parade and later reading the President’s speech.

People were treated to drill and mock battle displays by the soldiers and the stadium was full by 10 am.

Service chiefs including Group Captain Patrick Temba Moyo from the Air force of Zimbabwe, Lieutenant Colonel Julias Mupa from 2-3 Combat group of the Zimbabwe National Army, Snr Asst Commissioner George Dhenya from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services and police officer commanding Mashonaland West province Snr Asst Commissioner Rangarirayi Mushaurwa attended the celebrations.

More than 15 000 people from all walks of life thronged Sakubva Stadium in Mutare to commemorate the 36th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.

Scores of people started trickling in around 8am before Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs, Cde Mandi Chimene read President Mugabe’s speech.

The Zimbabwe National Army, Zimbabwe Republic Police and local traditional dance groups such as Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services outfit, Mansa and Chinyauhwera showcased some captivating drills, displays and music as well as energetic dances that left the gathering clamouring for more.

Those interviewed during the commemorations attributed the peace in Zimbabwe to the disciplined, dedicated, hardworking and honest uniformed forces.

“I came here with my whole family to commemorate this special day to us as Zimbabweans. We feel secure with security forces such as these. We believe they will continue to protect us and maintaining peace,” said Mrs Chiba of Chikanga high-density suburb.

Dangamvura – Chikanga National Assembly member, Dr Isau Mupfumi, Manicaland Senator, Sen Judith Mawire, Provincial Administrator Fungai Mbetsa and service chiefs were among those who attended the commemorations.

Eastern Region Division One soccer outfits, Buffaloes and Africa Trust wrapped up the fun-filled day with a soccer match.

In Masvingo thousands of people braved the cold weather to pack Mucheke Stadium where a number of entertainment activities were lined up.

Proceedings started after 9 am with the mass parade comprising soldiers from 4 Infantry Brigade accompanied by drum majorettes marching from Chikato Police Station to the stadium.

Service Chiefs led by 4 Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Exesbios Tshuma then arrived at Mucheke Stadium just before 11 am with Masvingo Provincial Affairs Minister Senator Shuvai Mahofa accompanied by Psychomotor Activities Minister Josaya Hungwe arriving later.

Minister Hungwe inspected the parade in place of Sen Mahofa accompanied by Brig Gen Tshuma.

The capacity crowd was then entertained by the parade, which conducted marches in quick and slow time before Sen Mahofa proceeded to read President Mugabe’s speech.

In Bindura some rainy showers did not deter thousands who assembled at Chipadze Stadium to join the nation in celebrating the Defence Forces Day.

Thousands of people braved the chilly weather as Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and MP for Mazowe North Advocate Martin Dinha read the President’s speech.

Deputy Commander Artillery Brigade Colonel Everson Nyamangodo, said the army was there to protect the people and uphold the constitution.

“We are happy with the turnout and the cooperation by the Minister and Government. Our army is fearless, strong and loved by many countries. Let’s continue to defend our borders,” he said.

Gushungo Magamba, Bindura Urban and Chengerai Hunzvi Chimurenga choirs provided entertainment.

Scores of people from Matabeleland South province gathered at Pelandaba Stadium in Gwanda to commemorate this year’s Defence Forces Day.

Rural Development, Preservation and Promotion of Culture and Heritage Minister who is also the Acting Minster of State for Matabeleland South, Abednico Ncube, led the celebrations and read the President’s speech.

The Zimbabwe National Army’s 1-1 Combat group entertained the crowd with colourful displays.

In Bulawayo, thousands gathered at White City stadium to mark the day and were treated to entertainment by the military band and other entertainment groups.

People started gathering at the stadium from as early as 8AM.

Before the official proceedings began, the military band and other music groups kept the crowds, both young and old, on their feet.

Service chiefs arrived at the venue at about 12.45PM before the arrival of the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs, Cde Nomthandazo Moyo about 10 minutes later.

Cde Moyo read President Mugabe’s speech.

In Matabeleland North, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Cde Can Mathema, inspected the guard of honour and read the President’s speech at Somhlolo Stadium in Lupane. In attendance were service chiefs as well as the Deputy Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Cde Thokozile Mathuthu, Bubi senator Madeline Bhebhe among others.

In the Midlands province, all roads led to Mkoba Stadium. Provincial Administrator Mrs Cecilia Chitiyo represented Midlands Minister of State Cde Jason Machaya who is recuperatingfroma horrific accident.

Mrs Chitiyo was accompanied by Commandant Zimbabwe Military Academy Colonel Steven Gwekwerere, Thornhill Airbase Commander Group Captain Ellisha Masakadza, 5 Infantry Brigade Colonel Svitswa and Prisons and Correctional Services Officer Commanding Midlands and Masvingo Provinces Senior Assistant Commissioner Celesina Mupfarinya.

The army among others provided the entertainment.

Cde Mguni

Bulawayo Bureau

South Africa has given Zimbabwe the nod to deploy its officers to issue passports, birth certificates and national identity cards to locals residing in the neighbouring country. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Cde Obedingwa Mguni said the documents would be issued from selected points in the neighbouring country as soon as South African authorities identify sites to conduct the exercise.He said his ministry would approach Botswana with the same request.

“We have approached the South African government seeking permission to issue passports, birth certificates and National IDs from their country and they have given us the go ahead.

“Our South African counterparts are now in the process of identifying places where we can conduct this exercise. When the locations have been submitted, we will immediately deploy our teams to the neighbouring country,” the deputy minister said.

Cde Mguni said the exercise sought to ensure that Zimbabweans in the Diaspora were in possession of all valuable documents.

He said a number of Zimbabweans were accessing neighbouring countries through illegal points while some neither had birth certificates nor National IDs.

Cde Mguni said his ministry was making efforts to reduce the time involved in processing passports.

He said passports were supposed to be processed and issued within a period of two weeks, but security checks involved were dragging the process.

“Passports should be issued within 14 days and ours are issued after two months. These are some of the anomalies that we want to address. We need to introduce quick coordinated security checks that will expedite the process.

“We recently acquired a highly efficient machine from Japan which processes passports but our pace does not complement the capacity of the machine because of these delays,” Cde Mguni said.

He said Plumtree, Victoria Falls, Beitbridge, Chipinge and Chiredzi Towns would be the first to introduce passport issuing services at district registry offices.

Cde Mguni said his Ministry had noted that these were the main entry points for people who were crossing into neighbouring countries illegally.

“My Ministry will be issuing out a tender very soon for companies that can provide us with the relevant machinery needed when capturing pictures among other equipment that will be used by the district offices.

“This machinery, however, has to be in line with United Nations standards. The details of the tender will be released as time goes on,” he said.

Cde Mguni said they were also making efforts to improve features of the Emergency Travel Document so that they’re once again recognised as legal travelling documents in neighbouring countries.

Tapiwanashe Matangaidze

Midlands Correspondent

Vulnerable and less privileged people living in urban centres have started receiving food aid following revelations of an increase in the number of families in need of food aid from 644 306 to 840 000 households. In an interview, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Deputy Minister Engineer Tapiwanashe Matangaidze said 4,1 million people were in need of food aid and the ministry had already started distributing maize in metropolitan provinces of Bulawayo and Harare.He said other small towns and cities will benefit from their provincial allocations.

“We have an excess of three months’ supply of maize and we have started distributing maize in metropolitan provinces to vulnerable people. We have allocated 157 tonnes of maize to Bulawayo, while we have also given Harare province 167 tonnes of maize.

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“What we have realised as Government is that the number of people who are in need of food aid has increased to 840 000 from 644 306 households. Now, an estimate of about 4,1 million people is need of food aid,” he said.

Eng Matangaidze said Government had distributed about 200 000 tonnes of maize this year, following the El Nino-induced drought that affected the greater part of Southern Africa.

He said the country, however, had more than enough grain in stock that could sustain it until the next harvesting period.

“We have, so far, distributed 194 343,23 tonnes of maize this year, following the drought. Government has secured enough food for the people.”

This year, farmers have delivered about 110 00 tonnes of maize to the Grain Marketing Board and they have been fully paid.

The Southern African Development Committee (sadc) region is also grappling with effects of the El Nino-induced drought after declaring the drought a disaster and is seeking $2,4 billion to help an estimate of about 40 million vulnerable people in the region fight hunger.

El Nino has resulted in widespread crop failures and poor harvests, with a 9,3 million tonne regional shortfall in cereal harvest production in Southern Africa.

The drought has also affected livestock with about 643 000 drought-related deaths reported in Botswana, Swaziland, South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Mr Chokuda

Zvamaida Murwira : Senior Reporter

The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Bill — which seeks to strip the State Procurement Board of powers to award tenders — is expected to be gazetted tomorrow before it is tabled in Parliament for debate. After the initial gazetting by Parliament, the Bill goes through procedures, including debates in the Lower and Upper Houses of Parliament and public hearings.If the Bill passes, it is sent for Presidential assent after which it will be gazetted to become law.

According to the proposed law, the awarding of tenders would now be done by accounting officers in various State departments and companies, with the SPB playing a supervisory and monitoring role to ensure Government entities comply with the law and other set standards.

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This is also in line with Government’s intention to improve the ease of doing business in Zimbabwe.

There have been allegations of corruption in the awarding of tenders at SPB, while other stakeholders complained of delays in adjudicating tenders, thereby affecting efficiency in Government.

Clerk of Parliament Mr Kennedy Chokuda said the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Bill was one of the Bills that were due for gazetting.

“We have received Bills from parent ministries and have submitted them to the printers for gazetting,” said Mr Chokuda.

Soon after gazetting, the Bill would immediately be referred to the Parliamentary Legal Committee for scrutiny if it is consistent with the Constitution.

Mudzi South legislator Cde Jonathan Samukange chairs the PLC.

The relevant portfolio committee would also be expected to convene public hearings to get views of stakeholders on the Bill before tabling a report in Parliament’s plenary on their findings.

Government’s decision to abolish the SPB followed the discovery that there could be loopholes that could have facilitated corrupt activities in the procurement of goods and services.

Government wants the SPB to be a standard-setting agency as part of broader strategies to eliminate bureaucratic red tape hindering Foreign Direct Investment inflows into the country.

Public procurement entities, in this case included Government ministries, parastatals, state entities and local authorities.

Existing procurement processes for State-run institutions and parastatals have been taking too long to approve, whereas their private sector counterparts were not bound by the same system in procuring goods and services.

The transformation of the SPB was consistent with the implementation of Government’s economic blueprint Zim-Asset calling for high efficiency in the service delivery system.

Also to be gazetted, is the Judiciary Laws Amendment Bill that is set to align the laws with the Constitution.

The Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill has been referred to the Attorney-General’s office for further refinement.

The Bill is set to strengthen mineral exploration as Government pushes the use it or lose it principle to combat people who hold claims for speculation purposes.

There have been several complaints of people holding on to claims for speculative purposes, thus undermining economic activity in the mining sector which has the potential of enhancing the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

Deeds Registries Amendment Bill is also due for gazetting.

Snr Asst Comm Charamba

Crime Reporter

THIRTEEN people were killed, while 67 others were injured in 101 road traffic accidents that were recorded countrywide during the just-ended Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day holidays. Eight of the accidents were fatal. During the period under review, police impounded 134 defective vehicles and issued 8 377 tickets to motorists for committing various offences.During the corresponding period last year, 13 people were killed, while 51 others were injured in 123 road accidents.

A total of 209 unroadworthy vehicles were impounded, while police issued 10 805 tickets to motorists last year.

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Chief police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba attributed this year’s accidents to speeding, lack of judgment, reversing errors and failure to give way.

“Motorists should be cautious when driving in built-up areas, especially residential, farming and major highways.

“Driving is an art and requires skills which should contribute towards safeguarding of lives on the roads. Of late, police have recorded cases of motorists speeding, where they end up losing control and killing pedestrians trying to cross the road or standing at bus stops.”

Snr Asst Comm Charamba said motorists were also failing to give way on approaching junctions or intersections.

“Police are urging drivers to be responsible and contribute towards the safety of all travellers on the road.

“The ZRP will ensure that the law takes its course on errant drivers who are recklessly causing road accidents,” Snr Asst Comm Charamba said.

Energy and Power Development Minister Samuel Undenge

Bianca Leboho : Herald Reporter

Seven heart patients who successfully underwent cardiac operations in India with assistance from a parastatal in the Ministry of Energy and Power Development have returned home. They were welcomed by Energy and Power Development Minister Dr Samuel Undenge, Health and Child Care Minister Dr David Parirenyatwa, officials from the two ministries and the National Oil Infrastructure Company of Zimbabwe (NOIC).The patients, aged between four and 18 years went to India last month for the operation with some expenses paid for by NOIC.

The Rotarians club was responsible for seeking sponsorship and facilitation of travel documents among other administrative roles.

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Addressing parents of the children who underwent the surgeries, patients and delegates who attended the ceremony in Harare yesterday, Dr Undenge said it was important for companies to observe with interest challenges faced by communities in which they operated.

“NOIC falls under my ministry and is normally responsible for fuel logistics. It, however, set out to make an impact in the lives of the ordinary man and woman on the street, which is quite commendable,” said Dr Undenge.

He said the children who travelled to India on July 11 and returned on 9 August, mostly came from poor families and would never have been able to afford to pay for the procedures conducted on them.

“After the heart procedures the children most of whom had been told that they had little time left to live, are now expected to live normal lives.”

“As a ministry, through NOIC, we will continue monitoring the progress of these children and we will assist them financially in as far as advancing their education is concerned,” said Dr Undenge.

Dr Parirenyatwa said the work done by the Ministry of Energy through NOIC was the beginning of a relationship that would possibly foster further financial assistance in the facilitation of open heart surgeries in the country and beyond its borders.

“NOIC in conjunction with the Rotarians have worked hard to ensure that ten of our children with acute heart conditions, which gave them a life span of not more than ten years are operated on albeit in India and they are all looking extremely healthy.

“As a ministry, we are grateful for the initiative,” said Dr Parirenyatwa.

He said Parirenyatwa Hospital was successfully performing open heart surgeries as previously announced although the procedure was still on a small scale.

“As a country we resumed open heart surgeries earlier this year but patients should still get assistance across the borders if they can because we are not yet able to perform the surgeries on a large scale.”

The use of children in Wednesday’s illegal demonstration by opposition activists led by Partson Dzamara has sparked outrage with the Government, lawyers and human rights organisations calling for action against the protest organisers

Felex Share : Senior Reporter

Government has castigated opposition activists for using children as human shields in their illegal demonstrations, describing the move as a gross violation of regional and international legal instruments that regulate the care and protection of minors. This follows the illogical parading of children on the front-line by opposition activists led by one Partson Dzamara and his brother’s wife, Sheffra, who were “protesting” the alleged disappearance of MDC-T activist Itai Dzamara at Africa Unity Square on Wednesday.The activists openly taunted the police in the hope of provoking an incident.

The police, however, had the good sense to ignore the provocation.

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Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Prisca Mupfumira yesterday said by coercing children to participate in the illegal demonstration, the activists should be charged for violating the country’s Constitution, the United Nations Convention on the Rights and Welfare of Children (UNCRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of Children (ACRWC).

Legal experts weighed in saying police should take organisers of the demonstration to task for putting the lives of innocent children at risk.

They said it was clear that the innocent children were being abused and not aware of the social and civic implications of the act.

Police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi, said they were investigating the activists’ “dirty tactics.”

Minister Mupfumira said participation of children in any protests was against the best interest of the child and had long term physical and psychological repercussions on the minors.

“As such, the State has a responsibility to ensure that children’s rights are safeguarded,” she said. “The use of children in the protest violates Article 36 of the UNCRC, which provides for the protection of children from any form of exploitation, which includes being taken advantage of; in this case it is clear that the organisers of this protest took advantage of these children to get a sympathetic ear. Ubuntu and morality prohibits the use of children for adult gain.”

Minister Mupfumira added: “Article 15 of the UNCRC as well as Article 8 of the ACRWC outlines that every child has the right to free association and peaceful assembly in conformity with the law and in this case the engagement of children in a protest is not in conformity with the law. Section 81 (1) (g) of the Zimbabwe Constitution provides that ‘Every child…has a right not to be compelled to take part in any political activity’. It is doubtful if these children on their own volition volunteered to be part and parcel of this protest.”

Most of the activists who participated in the Wednesday illegal protests, are those behind last weeks’ failed demonstrations that were aimed at toppling the Government.

Said Chief Supt Nyathi: “The law is very clear. It is illegal for anyone to use children as shields in a demonstration. As police, we are conducting investigations into this incident.”

Harare lawyer Mr Terrence Hussein, said Africa Unity Square, for now, was not an environment for children.

“Anything that revolves around children, the best interest of the child must always prevail,” he said.

“If seen that the best interests are being compromised or exposed to danger, then the law usually intervenes on their behalf. Usually it is done through the Children’s Court or the High Court. The High Court is the upper guardian of all children in Zimbabwe. You can sometimes find that the High Court can override the decisions of the parents in situations where it is shown that the parents are not acting properly on behalf of the children. The issue here is in a situation where there is a demonstration or a protest, why would one put minors on the frontline? What if there was a riotous incident, which involves teargas or high powered water canons?”

Another lawyer Mr Tendai Toto, said what the protestors did was illegal.

“Putting the law into perspective and the rights of the children in particular the United Nations Convection on the Rights of the Child, the Children’s Protection and Adoption Act of Zimbabwe and the Constitution of Zimbabwe that have a wider and compelling provisions that protect children’s rights, the involvement of innocent children who do not know and appreciate the social and civic implications is wrongful and an infringement of child rights,” he said.

“The conduct of involving these children and demonstrations of this nature, no matter how peaceful it can be, undoubtedly escalates traumatic experiences. Not everyone who participates in these demonstrations will share the same peaceful cause of the protests. Passerby citizens can incite violence turning the demonstrations into violent ones. This exposes these children to permanent, psychological and physical harm.”

Most of the illegal protests carried out by the activists end up violently as they usually stone police officers in the process.

The Israeli army came underfire from rights groups around the world when, during Operation Cast Lead, Israel’s three-week bombardment of the Gaza Strip in the winter of 2008-2009, Israeli soldiers used an eleven-year-old Palestinian boy as a human shield, forcing him to walk in front of them at gunpoint and enter potentially booby-trapped buildings to check for explosives.

Felex Share : Senior Reporter

The registration of farmers willing to participate in the $500 million command agriculture scheme has begun, with Government yesterday inviting those interested to register with Agritex officers in their respective areas. Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet (responsible for implementation, monitoring and evaluation) Mr Justin Mupamhanga yesterday said work was in progress on the scheme that sought to ensure maize self-sufficiency this year.The programme, which aims to produce two million tonnes of maize on 400 000 hectares of land, will see identified farmers being given inputs, irrigation and mechanised equipment.

“Registration of farmers as we speak is in progress at all Agritex offices countrywide,” Mr Mupamhanga said.

“As we pronounce this programme, we are communicating to all farmers so that they start taking part in the programme. Information and registration on contract farming starting 2016-2017 summer season can be obtained from the nearest Agritex offices.

“Further details can be obtained from the command centre on telephone number 04-792447. The programme will support with, where required, production inputs like fertilisers, seed and agrochemicals on a cost recovery basis.”

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The farmers, to work under strict supervision, will be required to commit five tonnes per hectare to Government as repayment for the inputs and agricultural equipment.

They will retain all surplus produced for personal use.

Mr Mupamhanga added: “All farmers with potential to produce above five tonnes per hectare are being targeted. Government is embarking on this special programme on contract maize production to guarantee food security. Farmers that are targeted to participate in the programme are those with irrigation infrastructure, potential irrigable areas and maize producers on dry land both large and small scale farmers.”

Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who chairs the Cabinet Committee on Food Security and Nutrition, recently said Cabinet had tasked the Ministries of Lands and Rural Resettlement, Agriculture, Mechanisation and Irrigation Development and Environment, Water and Climate to identify farms, farmers and water bodies for the implementation of the command agriculture initiative.

He said of the 400 000 hectares targeted, at least half of that would be irrigated land.

VP Mnangagwa said Government was negotiating lines of credit with various financial institutions to fund the programme.

At least 2 000 farmers are expected to participate in the scheme and will sign a performance contract for three consecutive growing seasons.

Government’s decision to embark on command agriculture was necessitated by the rise in national food insecurity from about 12 percent in 2011 to 42 percent this year.

The Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment Report says four million people need food aid this year because of an El-Nino-induced drought.

Other Government programmes such as the Presidential Inputs Support Scheme will remain in place to complement the command agriculture.