Chiwenga to light independence flame in Beitbridge

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga is expected to arrive in Beitbridge this morning to officiate at the lighting of the Independence Flame at Juliet Assembly Point, marking the start of this year's commemorative roadshow.

The ceremony will launch the Independence Flame journey across Matabeleland South's seven districts before culminating at the national celebrations in Maphisa Growth Point.

The lighting of the flame symbolises freedom, unity and national pride, forming a key part of Zimbabwe's Independence commemorations.

Chairperson of the Beitbridge State Functions Committee, Mrs Sikhangezile Mafu, said all preparations for the event had been completed.

"We are ready to receive the Vice President. Our teams have worked tirelessly to ensure that Zezani Assembly Point is transformed and that we have flawless celebrations," she said.

Mafu added that transport arrangements had been made to ensure broad community participation.

"We have arranged buses to transport community members from all wards so that they can be part of this historic celebration," she said, urging residents to attend in large numbers.

The Independence Flame roadshow is expected to build momentum ahead of the main Independence Day commemorations, which will be held in Matobo District.

The venue, officially known as Juliet Assembly Point, holds deep historical significance in Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. It served as a key rendezvous centre for freedom fighters from ZANLA and ZIPRA during the ceasefire period.

Following the Lancaster House Conference, assembly points such as Zezani were established to facilitate the demobilisation process under Commonwealth supervision.

Thousands of fighters gathered at these centres to register, surrender weapons and prepare for the transition to independence.

Juliet Assembly Point remains the only such site in Matabeleland South and is one of 16 established nationwide.

The site, located at a former Rural Infrastructure Development Agency campsite, is now being upgraded by the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ).

Completed works include the installation of an Independence Flame stand, flagpoles, a soldier's silhouette monument, and interpretive facilities designed to preserve and showcase the country's liberation history.

The Independence Flame initiative forms part of broader government efforts to document and preserve Zimbabwe's liberation heritage while fostering unity and patriotism.

As the flame travels across districts, it is expected to draw communities together in remembrance of the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence.