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Herald Reporter
President Mnangagwa yesterday wished Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad, a happy and peaceful Easter holiday, but hinted that security arms will intensify patrols to ensure compliance with the 21-day national Covid-19 lockdown.

He said this year’s Easter holiday, which starts today, was unique in the sense that no gatherings were allowed as the country observes the lockdown aimed at containing the spread of Covid-19.

In his address on the eve of Good Friday at State House, the President said the difficulties and challenges being faced by the nation would not last forever.

“I am aware that in the past, the Easter holiday season would see most families, friends, as well as worshippers gather together to remember the gift of eternal life given to us by God through the death and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” said President Mnangagwa.

“Sadly, this will not be possible this holiday, as we continue to observe the essential lockdown we instituted to prevent the spread of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. However, do not despair for the Bible says in Matthew 18 verse 20, where two or three gather, the Lord is present with them.

“I urge us all to continue to stay at home, as well as practising good hygiene and observing social distance.”

The President wished citizens a joyful Easter filled with blessings, peace, love and the hope of a brighter tomorrow.

He said as the nation goes through this year’s Easter holiday, citizens should find hope and strength in the words of Jesus Christ in John 16 verse 33, who reminds people that in the world, there will be many trials tribulations, but called for peace, and to be of good cheer, since He has overcome the world.

“In the midst of the darkness, may the light of Jesus Christ shine,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said people should be further encouraged by the knowledge that Jesus Christ triumphed over death.

The President said as part of efforts to fight the spread of Covid-19, security arms will be intensifying patrols to ensure compliance and to curb the movement of pedestrians and vehicles.

Government plans to continue to scale up and improve its preparedness to handle the Covid-19 threat and consolidate the gains made in keeping the country safe.

President Mnangagwa applauded frontline workers that have dedicated their lives to fighting Covid-19.

“We pay tribute to the many men and women constituting the essential services and are keeping our country functional during this lockdown period. We shall be moving with greater speed to provide the workers in the frontline with all the adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and personal protective clothing as well as the requisite training to ensure their safety in the wake of the Covid-19 threat. In addition, I would like to commend the various stakeholders, from across the social spectrum, who are giving generously towards our fight against Covid-19. Together we are stronger,” he said.

The answer to the Covid-19 crisis, said the President, lay in people’s discipline and unity.