President Emmerson Mnangagwa
By Kudakwashe Dzanyaza
In a show of deep appreciation and unity with the citizens of Zimbabwe, His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa is scheduled to formally thank the people of Mashonaland Central Province for their unwavering support during the 2023 Harmonised elections.
The Mashonaland Central Presidential Thank You Rally is slated for the 6th of April in Shamva. The president will also address similar commemorations in other provinces across the country.
ZANU PF party’s comprehensive win across all Parliamentary and Senate seats in Mashonaland Central Province was instrumental in fortifying the party’s overall triumph, spotlighting the province’s essential contribution to this success.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa garnered 370,175 votes in Mash Central, the highest of all the provinces, which contributed to his emphatic victory that earned him a mandate for the second presidential term.
Rooted deeply in Zimbabwe’s historical narrative and liberation movement, Mashonaland Central remains a bastion of ideological and unwavering support for ZANU PF.
The province also takes pride in being the residence of the First Lady, Dr. Auxilia Mnangagwa, whose significant contributions to grassroots political activism and community welfare have been remarkable.
Her endeavors in combating domestic violence, fostering gender inclusivity, and advocating for the disadvantaged resonate with the national agenda of inclusivity and comprehensive support for all Zimbabweans.
The Mashonaland Central rally transcends a mere ceremonial gesture, but servs as a profound acknowledgment of the province’s lasting legacy and its contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation and progress.
President Mnangagwa’s visit signifies the government’s recognition of the province’s role and its people’s steadfast solidarity and support towards the nation’s flourishing future.
Dr. Mathew Mare, a renowned academic from Rushinga District, grateful for the government’s robust education policy that has empowered his academic pursuits, is eager for the President’s engagement with the people of Mash Central.
In the Second Republic, academics have been given a critical role in propelling the nation’s quest for a knowledge-based economy, with education, innovation, and technology being central to economic competitiveness and growth.
Commenting on the upcoming rally, Dr. Mare remarked that the President’s return to the province emphasizes his dedication to fulfilling his role as a servant leader, attentive to the populace’s voice.
Dr Mare’s impressive academic credentials, including two PhDs, 7 Master’s degrees, two undergraduate degrees, diplomas and 15 executive certificates, highlight his commitment to scholarly excellence.
Despite childhood challenges, Dr. Mare’s progression from a difficult childhood in Rushinga to scholastic success is a testament to resilience and determination, serving as an inspiration to many.
Talk of Rushinga, one of the places in the borders that were heavily affected by war, this has been a cradle for exceptional individuals who have ascended to influential leadership positions within the government.
Notably, Ambassador Kosam Mupezeni stands out as the first Rushinga native to attain the prestigious rank of Ambassador following his recent assignment to Sudan.
Other luminaries hailing from Rushinga include Brigadier Generals Mhonda and Chihumba, retired Director of Counter Intelligence Nyamudahondo, Assistant Director Noah, and the esteemed academic and former Cabinet minister Dr. Lazarus Dokora, among others.
This rally will not only serves as a platform for gratitude but also as an important occasion for promoting unity and dialogue between political leaders and the citizenry.
It reaffirms the Second Republic’s commitment to national service and to steering Zimbabwe towards Vision 2030, aspiring to transform Zimbabwe into a middle-income economy focused on economic growth, job creation, infrastructure enhancement, and improved living standards.
Furthermore, maintaining Zimbabwe’s independence and sovereignty remains paramount and progressive intellectuals like Dr. Mare are indispensable in preserving the nation’s independence through their dedication to national development and diverse contributions.
The historical significance of Mashonaland Central Province, particularly its role in the liberation struggle and its strategic position adjacent to Mozambique and Zambia, remains crucial in the present and future of Zimbabwe.
Positioned in the northern part of Zimbabwe, Mash Central borders Mozambique to the east and Zambia to the north.
During the liberation struggle, these neighboring countries played pivotal roles in supporting the fight against colonial rule in Zimbabwe. Both Mozambique and Zambia offered sanctuary, training camps, and logistical support to liberation fighters from ZAPU and ZANU PF and other movements.
Mozambique, under President Samora Machel, and Zambia, led by President Kenneth Kaunda, were instrumental allies, providing sanctuary, training, and support to the liberation efforts, significantly contributing to Zimbabwe’s eventual independence in 1980.
Mash Central Province’s strategic location along these borders, therefore, holds a special place in the history of Zimbabwe’s struggle for freedom and independence.
The 2023 elections saw ZANU PF maintaining its stronghold in Mashonaland Central Province, securing a substantial majority of seats with impressive vote counts:
Bindura North: Cde Kenneth Shupikai Musanhi with 16,513 votes. Bindura South: Cde Toendepi Remigious Matangira with 17,266 votes.
Guruve North: Cde Tendai Pinduka with 23,738 votes.
Guruve South: Cde Christopher Magomo with 20,324 votes.
Mazowe Central: Cde Maxmore Njanji with 21,916 votes.
Mazowe North: Cde Tsungai Makumbe with 21,840 votes.
Mazowe South: Cde Nobert Tichaona Muzunguwe with 15,973 votes.
Mazowe West: Cde Kazembe Kazembe with 25,771 votes.
Mbire: Cde David Butau with 19,059 votes.
Mt Darwin East: Cde Dzidzai Butau with 20,731 votes.
Mt Darwin North: Cde Labbany Munemo with 18,460 votes.
Mt Darwin South: Cde Kudakwashe Mupamhanga with 20,153 votes.
Mt Darwin West: Cde Witness Jonga with 21,127 votes.
Muzarabani North: Cde Zhemu Soda with 21,514 votes.
Muzarabani South: Cde Benjamin Kabikira with 22,526 votes.
Rushinga: Cde Tendai Nyabani with 24,575 votes.
Shamva North: Cde Isac Chinodakufa with 26,320 votes.
Shamva South: Cde Joseph Mapiki with 31,068 votes.
