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Munyaradzi Musiiwa Midlands Correspondent
Thousands of people yesterday thronged the Midlands Provincial Heroes’ Acre in Gweru and other shrines across the province’s seven districts to commemorate the sacrifices made by fallen heroes to liberate the country.

Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs Cde Larry Mavima read President Mnangagwa’s speech, which was well received by those in attendance.

Proceedings started at 9am with the national anthem being sung, followed by solidarity speeches from the war veterans, collaborators and other affiliates.

Minister Mavima delivered the speech concurrently with the President.

He also assured the province that Government had adequate food in stock to sustain everyone until the next harvesting period.

“I would want to assure the province that the country has enough grain in stock to feed the country until the next harvesting period.

“No one will die of hunger despite poor harvests. President Mnangagwa has reiterated that Government will provide food to those that are food insecure,” he said.

Minister Mavima also laid a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before touring other tombs at the Heroes’ Acre, together with families of the heroes buried at the provincial shrine.

Also in attendance was Gweru Mayor Councillor Josiah Makombe.

Clr Makombe said his presence at the shrine represented the entirety of Gweru residents in commemorating Heroes’ Day.

Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans’ Association (ZNLWVA) Midlands chairperson Cde Virginia Mpaso said Heroes’ Day should serve as a reminder to every citizen for the selfless dedication shown by the country’s gallant sons and daughters who lost their lives fighting for freedom.

She said it was incumbent upon Zimbabweans to protect the gains of the revolution and pass on the treasure to forthcoming generations.

“The liberation struggle is engraved in the history of this country. This day reminds us of those who fought to break the enslaving chains and the evil shackles of colonialism.

“Youths are therefore obliged to be patriotic and jealously guard the gains and interests of the revolution,” said Cde Mpaso.

Widows and families of the departed heroes buried at the provincial shrine also received food hampers from River Valley Properties.