Unity is key, says Moyo

THE Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs, Nomthandazo Eunice Moyo, has reiterated the need for unity in the province saying this will foster development.

She said this while addressing delegates during her 70th birthday celebrations held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair grounds yesterday.

"We can get power only if we arise and unite in this province, our late Father Zimbabwe Joshua Nkomo left us a legacy of unity that we have to follow so that we prosper, united we stand, divided we fall. We do not need divisions in this place," she said.

Moyo said people in Bulawayo Province should understand that they were responsible for its development.

"Everyone should ask him/herself what contribution they have made towards the revival and unifying of Bulawayo. We must know ourselves and stand as one for our development," she said.

Moyo celebrated her 70th birthday at a colourful ceremony which was ivory and gold themed and attended by the who's-who of the city together with the Zanu-PF leadership in the province. Popular guest at the event was Gogo Jane Ngwenya who met many of her colleagues from the days of the liberation war. Speaking on behalf of the family, Moyo's last- born daughter Phoebe said their mother was a pillar of strength for the family.

"I don't know how you do it mum but you hold the family together. We cannot call home a home when there is no mother.

You are a loving and supportive mum indeed. We love you mum," she said.

Her elder sister Gloria said she was proud to see the family celebrating such a happy event.

Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Co-operative Development Sithembiso Nyoni said her history with Moyo dates back to the time they were young girls and she taught women in rural Plumtree how to do small projects.

"We come a long way with my friend. I am happy she has taught me a lot of things and I treasure those moments. She has been very industrious dating back to the war times," said Nyoni.

Jeys Marabini, a local musician penned a heart-rending song dedicated to the minister and he did a live performance of the track. Iyasa also put up a sterling performance as they kept the crowd energised with their routines.

Among the dignitaries were Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Obedingwa Mguni, Minister of State in the Office of Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko, Tabeth Kanengoni Malinga, Absalom Sikhosana, Joshua Malinga, captains of industry and the Zanu-PF leadership.