President commissions Pupu memorial site, clinic

Oscar J Jeke

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday commissioned the Pupu memorial site together with the Pupu Clinic in Lupane, noting that his government is committed to preserving and modernising the country’s rich history and identity.

The Pupu memorial site, located in Lupane Matabeleland North Province, marks the roots of the first resistance against European settlers with the erection of the monument, celebrating the heroic exploits of the General Khumalo-led regiment in defeating the better equipped colonial force led by Allan Wilson.

Speaking at the commissioning event, President Mnangagwa said that his government places importance on aspects that remember, modernise and preserve Zimbabwe’s rich history and roots, while celebrating the heroics of our forefathers, who against all odds resisted white colonialist interests.

The President also added that the history of the country gives it an identity that helps us unite and build on the future with a collective foundation.

“Under Second Republic, my Government resolved to remember and modernise our strong Zimbabwean roots and identity and the history of our forefathers will never be forgotten. A nation or community without history and culture are like trees without roots.

“This has seen my government recognising heroes and heroines of the 1st Chimurenga/Umvukela for example the Mbuya Nehanda Statue in Harare, likewise, many strategic national institutions have been named after the heroes and heroines of the 1st Chimurenga/Umvukela,” President Mnangagwa said.

The exhibitions at the monument give the native narrative that show the Ndebele resisting colonial occupation, through the battle at Bonko by the Shangani River and at Gadade in Mbembesi.

It also shows the burning of King Lobengula's Royal capital at Emahlabathini, the pursuit of King Lobengula by the 34-men force of pioneers, later known as Shangani Patrol, who were defeated by General Khumalo.

The monument also debunks Eurocentric scholarship that has all along sought to eulogise the settler army, providing a new narrative that shows the heroics of General Khumalo and his army.