By Farai Dustee Marapira  Since 31 December 2019 and as of 16 April 2020, 2 029 930 cases of COVID-19 have been reported, including 136 320 deaths. Zimbabwe has not evaded the infectious disease and is under lockdown. For the first time in 40 years we faced Easter under lockdown and now our revered independence as well. We face arguably our sternest challenge as a nation as I write. Zimbabwe, shall for the first time since 1980, fail to congregate in celebration of its independence and the city of kings which was set to host the celebrations is reeling from new infections. It is indeed a surreal independence that we face. However, in our homes we shall remember the many sacrifices that brought us independence. The arduous roads traveled, the tears shed and indeed the blood spilt. As we celebrate our independence in our clusters with each teaching own families on what independence means. Let us teach them that independence is a celebration of oneness and common purpose that saw us overcome the suppression of the white man. Let them know that to this day we fight neo-colonialism and still battle for our right to assert our will on ourselves. Let them know that we remain defiant and undefeated in the face of sanctions and many acts of sabotage designed to bring our proud country to its knees. Let our families know that we have a duty to the past, present and future to remain resolute and united, for in unity defeat is impossible. On the 18th of April, let us each open the eyes of our families to the strength and beauty that is the greater family called Zimbabwe and have them revere what has been created from so much sacrifice. As we battle covid-19, let us remember that it is not greater than what defines us. Let us be proud of who and what we are, who and what we have become and indeed who and what we shall become. Let each one among us remember in their houses tomorrow, that they are Zimbabwe. We stand proud of who we are, humbled by the efforts of our fathers that gave us this freedom and resolute to further their values. Let us teach our families about the Chinhoyi Seven, Chimoio, Nyadzonia, our land, our rights. Teach your families who we truly are. Zimbabwe. In our houses let us celebrate our nation, let us embrace our history, let it define our today and give inspiration for tomorrow. Household by household.