By Sam Mupedziswa
MAPHISA, Matabeleland South — Vice President Kembo Mohadi has conducted a final high-level inspection of preparations for this year’s Independence Day celebrations, expressing satisfaction with progress made in transforming Maphisa into a national event hub.
Chairing the Cabinet Committee on State and National Functions in Matobo District, VP Mohadi said the visit marked his last assessment before the commemorations, with focus on ensuring all key projects are on track.
“I chair the committee overseeing preparations for these events. This is my final visit before Independence Day to assess progress on the ground and identify any areas that still require attention,” he said.
The Vice President Mohadi noted that significant strides had been made, guided by comprehensive reports from various stakeholders. While roadworks remain one of the areas previously lagging behind, he assured that government remains committed to completing them.
“The roads will not be abandoned. I have given a deadline that by November, all roadworks will be completed,” Mohadi added.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South, Hon Albert Nguluvhe, said the hosting of Independence Day has already begun to yield tangible development benefits across the province.
He highlighted that leadership deliberately chose Maphisa to ensure equitable development and honor the legacy of the late nationalist hero Vice President Joshua Mnqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo.
Among the flagship projects underway are:
• Construction of a vocational training centre accommodating up to 1,500 youths
• Establishment of science laboratories across all seven districts
• Upgrading of the long-neglected Gwanda–Maphisa Road
• Development of a new stadium for national events
• Construction of war veterans’ housing
The vocational training centre, situated on land offered by the Mnqabuko Trust, is expected to play a critical role in addressing skills gaps among young people.
“We realised many learners were not taking science subjects due to lack of laboratories. These projects are designed to close that gap and prepare our children for higher education,” he said.
In addition to infrastructure, the government has rolled out several community-focused initiatives, including:
• Drilling of 69 boreholes across Matabeleland South.
• Construction of clinics, schools, and classroom blocks
• Installation of Starlink internet kits across all districts
• Establishment of cultural museums showcasing local heritage
A liberation heritage site is also being developed, with a museum and water infrastructure already in place.
The Independence Flame is set to be lit at the Juliet Assembly Point by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga as part of the commemorative activities.
ZANU PF Matabeleland South Provincial Political Commissar, Cde Washington Nkomo, described the scale of development as unprecedented.
“What we are witnessing are miracles. We have never seen such works in this province before. The stadium, roads, and laboratories are all visible signs of transformation,” he said.
He added that preparations are now in the final stages, with expectations that approximately 40,000 people will attend the celebrations.
ZANU PF Youth League provincial chairman, Cde Moses Langa, said the developments signal a new era of opportunity for young people in the region.
“As youths, we are excited to witness this transformation. The stadium, vocational training centre, and schools will create employment and skills development opportunities,” he said.
Chairman Langa also confirmed that the Independence celebrations will feature a football match between Highlanders FC and Scotland FC, marking a historic moment for Maphisa.
The 2026 Independence Day celebrations are expected to bring together people from all ten provinces, reinforcing national unity while leaving behind lasting infrastructure in Matabeleland South.
Officials say the projects underway are not only for the commemorations but form part of a broader development agenda aimed at uplifting communities long after the event.