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The Herald April 18, 1983 

THE fourth year of Zimbabwe’s Independence will be attended by “more visible signs of transformation in order to give greater meaning to our new political reality”. 

The Prime Minister, Cde Mugabe, was speaking to the guests at the National Sports Centre, Harare, yesterday. 

He said there should be more cooperatives, not only in the agricultural sector but in the other sectors, more State enterprise, and greater State participation in chosen existing enterprises. 

“Whatever plans we have will naturally depend for their success on the financial resources available to us, the quantity and quality of skilled manpower at our disposal, the technology we can master, and the determination and will of our people to advance themselves through hard work and spirit of self-reliance. 

“In circumstances in which our economy has been adversely affected by the world recession and recently by the worst drought ever, our nation can ill afford to be complacent.” 

He called on workers in various sectors, the peasants, all professionals and all arms of Government to enter the fourth year of Independence with new resolutions. 

“Each and every one of us has a vital role to play for we are all links in the unfolding chain of desired progress and advancement. Server that chain by removing a single link and the progress we desire is immediately halted.” 

Cde Mugabe pledged the role of the worker would continue to be enhanced by the organisation, training and participation in the management of the enterprise for which he works. 

Social services such as education, health and social welfare were earmarked for greater expansion under the three-year plan. 

“Let us now proceed into our fourth year of independence more determined to succeed in our various walks of life and as a nation.” 

LESSONS FOR TODAY 

 Independence day is a day to reflect on the past and present and to chart a new way forward.  

 This year’s Independence day celebrations are coming at a time when the Second Republic is consolidating its development drive through embarking on major infrastructure projects such as road rehabilitation. 

 The development of the nation cannot be left to the Government alone, but should be a collective effort by all Zimbabweans. This is why President Mnangagwa is pushing the mantra “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”. 

As a country, we should not let distractions and detractors derail our focus. Just as the economy was being adversely affected by recession and drought then, currently there are also pressures such as Covid-19 and sanctions. Zimbabweans should remain vigilant and guard against complacency especially in terms of Covid-19.