Mugabe's 89 years birthday celebrations moved to early March

This year's celebrations to mark the 21st February Movement that were set for February 23 have been moved back to March 2 due to unforeseen developments, with the venue remaining Chipadze Stadium in Bindura, an official has said.

Chairman of the National Co-ordination Committee for the event Absolom Sikhosana, who is also the Zanu-PF secretary for Youth Affairs, yesterday told journalists that fundraising for the event was going on in all the 10 provinces.

"We urge those who want to present gifts to do so through the accredited fundraising committees in their areas to avoid some who may claim to be fundraising for the event," he said.

"Those who donate should get receipts and if they come through banks they should keep their deposit slips."

The preparations for the event, said Sikhosana, were at an advanced stage.

The fundraising committee has targeted to raise US$600 000 from the 10 provinces to successfully play host to the event.

The celebrations would be held under the theme "Youth for Indigenisation, Empowerment, Development and Employment Creation", with more than 60 000 people expected to attend.

The celebrations are held in honour of President Mugabe, who was born on February 21, 1924.

They provide youths with a platform to understand leadership roles and emulate the dedication of President Mugabe to the cause of the country in particular and Africa in general.

This year's focus would be on raising consciousness among young people on the need to be proud of their identity.

Those intending to attend the celebrations would be provided with transport from all the 10 provinces.

The 21st February Movement is the brainchild of Zanu-PF youths, but the event has since grown to encompass all Zimbabwean youths regardless of their political affiliations.