Matobo District to Host 2026 Independence Celebr...

Matobo District to Host 2026 Independence Celebrations

Oscar J Jeke- Zim Now Reporter

Maphisa, located in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, has been selected to host Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day and National Children’s Party celebrations in April 2026.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere confirmed Cabinet’s decision, noting that it aligns with government efforts to decentralise national events and stimulate infrastructure-led development in host provinces.

“The strategic selection of Maphisa leverages its profound historical significance and is expected to catalyse infrastructure development,” said Minister Muswere during a post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday. “Notably, the event will spearhead road rehabilitation, including the Bulawayo-Maphisa and Gwanda-Maphisa roads, which are critical for regional connectivity.”

As part of its legacy project framework, government has approved the disbursement of US$35 million to support infrastructure development in host provinces. Of that amount, US$2.5 million will go toward finalising ongoing legacy projects in Manicaland and Mashonaland Central—both of which previously hosted the national celebrations.

A further US$32.5 million has been allocated to the Midlands Province to ensure the completion of its outstanding Independence legacy infrastructure. This includes clinics, bridges, schools, roads, and other essential services aimed at uplifting rural communities.

“Government remains committed to replicating the legacy project model in all provinces as they take turns to host the National Independence Day and Children’s Party Celebrations,” Muswere added. “These projects are anchored in a sustainable development strategy meant to leave a lasting socio-economic impact in communities.”

The selection of Maphisa also paves the way for the extension of the Bulawayo-Maphisa Road to Mpoengs on the Botswana border—an initiative expected to boost trade, tourism, and regional integration within Southern Africa.

Zimbabwe’s decentralised Independence celebrations began in 2021, part of a broader initiative to promote national unity and equitable development. Each host province benefits from a package of state-led infrastructure projects designed to improve service delivery, with special emphasis on rural transformation.

Matobo’s hosting of the 2026 celebrations is expected to bring renewed attention and investment to Matabeleland South—one of Zimbabwe’s least developed provinces—while also reinforcing its cultural and liberation war legacy.