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Pamela Shumba Senior Reporter—
THE revolutionary party Zanu-PF has called on Zimbabweans to continue safeguarding the prevailing peace and tranquility in order for the country to focus on growing the economy. Zimbabwe celebrates 35 years of independence today. The country’s independence came as a result of a protracted war of liberation fought by Zimbabwe’s gallant sons and daughters against the colonial regime.

Cde Simon Khaya Moyo, the Zanu-PF secretary for information and publicity who is also Minister of Economic Planning and Investment Promotion yesterday said Independence Day was a special day that gives the nation an opportunity to reflect and remember how an independent Zimbabwe came about.

He called on the nation to be united and shun divisions. Cde Moyo also urged Zimbabweans to be grateful to the country’s fallen and living heroes.

“This is a special day for all of us. It’s important because it gives us an opportunity to reflect on our journey from 1980 as we remember the people who suffered most to liberate this country.

“For us to enjoy this independence brought about after a protracted struggle led by our leaders, President Mugabe and the late VP, Cde Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, people need to appreciate that without unity there would never be peace and without peace there would never be development,” said Cde Khaya Moyo.

Thousands of Zimbabweans are expected to throng various centres countrywide to mark the 35th Independence Day, which is being held under the theme: “Zimbabwe at 35: Consolidating Unity, Peace and Economic Sovereignty”.

The main event will be held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare, where President Mugabe is expected to address the nation.

Cde Moyo urged Zimbabweans to shun regionalism and tribalism, saying they promote divisions among people.

Cde Khaya Moyo said the country was still to overcome its biggest challenge, that of economic emancipation. However, the process to attain economic independence started with the land reform programme.

“We now have our economic blueprint, the Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio Economic Transformation (Zim-Asset), which needs to be implemented to grow the economy.

“We also need to eradicate corruption and everybody has a duty in this fight. The country is seriously affected by economic sanctions, but with vision and focus we can still be a successful country,” said Cde Khaya Moyo.

Minister of State for Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs Cde Cain Mathema congratulated the nation for turning 35.

He said Independence Day remained an important day on the country’s calendar.