Thousands of Zimbabweans are today converging in Maphisa, Matabeleland South, for the country’s 46th Independence Day celebrations, with all preparations now complete for the historic event.
Held under the theme Zim@46 – Unity and Development Towards Vision 2030, this year’s commemorations have turned the once quiet growth point into a hive of activity, following months of intensive infrastructural upgrades and logistical planning.
Government has confirmed that all systems are in place to ensure a smooth and memorable national event. Local Government and Public Works minister Daniel Garwe said the country is fully prepared to host thousands of people expected from across all 10 provinces.
“All the country’s provinces will be represented in large numbers, and we have ensured that access routes and safety measures are fully in place,” Garwe said.
“From a Civil Protection Department perspective, we have a comprehensive national emergency response plan to handle any eventualities, including road accidents or other disasters.”
Major road networks leading to Maphisa have been rehabilitated to accommodate the influx of visitors.
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The Maphisa–Gwanda road has been widened and resurfaced, while the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa road was upgraded through a coordinated effort involving seven contractors working simultaneously across different sections.
These key transport arteries are expected to ease congestion and ensure smooth travel into the venue.
Critical service infrastructure has also been upgraded ahead of the celebrations.
A new piped water scheme is now supplying the central business district and surrounding communities, while a newly built clinic has been equipped to handle emergencies during and beyond the festivities.
Solar-powered streetlights have further transformed the town, improving visibility and enhancing security.
At the heart of the celebrations, the newly constructed Maphisa Stadium stands ready to host the main event. Site engineer Sean Mukwamba said works began from scratch in September last year, with significant progress made in a short period.
“We started when the area was still a hill and had to level the ground to make it suitable for football matches,” Mukwamba said.
“By mid-January, we had laid topsoil for the pitch, and by February we were working on terraces and ablution facilities. The stadium now also includes a parking area.”
Beyond infrastructure, the local economy is already benefiting from the event. Businesses in Maphisa have reported increased activity, with vendors stocking up on groceries, national flags and other memorabilia to meet rising demand.
Residents have welcomed the developments, expressing pride in hosting the national celebrations for the first time.
Village head Sipho Ncube said the transformation of the area has been unprecedented.
“We have never seen such development here,” Ncube said. “The roads, clinic and other facilities are truly life-changing.”
While most projects linked to the celebrations have been completed, work continues on the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Vocational Training Centre, which is expected to be finished by the end of the year.
Engineer Gift Masuku of Gap Construction said the facility will be a major boost to skills development in the region.
“It will include classrooms, workshops, hostels, staff accommodation and other key amenities,” Masuku said. “Once complete, it will be one of the most significant training centres in the country.”
With infrastructure in place, safety systems activated and the venue ready, Maphisa is fully prepared to host Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day celebrations, marking a milestone event that blends national pride with tangible development.