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Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]

MATABELELAND South Province will hold its 45th provincial Independence Day celebrations in Plumtree this year, marking a shift from its traditional venue in Gwanda, the provincial capital. This change follows the adoption of a rotational system in line with President Mnangagwa’s decentralisation policy.

Stakeholders during a Matabeleland South independence preparatory meeting

Stakeholders from the province, including Zanu-PF leaders, heads of Government departments, and service chiefs, convened in Plumtree on Monday for an independence preparatory meeting. During the meeting, it was agreed that the celebrations would rotate among different districts to promote inclusivity and decentralisation.

Matabeleland South Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mrs Lathiso Dlamini-Maseko, said stakeholders visited Plumtree High School to assess the venue following the meeting.

“We held a meeting as stakeholders from the province, and it was resolved that this year’s Independence Day celebrations will be held in Plumtree Town. We have always held the celebrations in Gwanda, which is the provincial capital, but we have now adopted the rotational system,” said Mrs Dlamini-Maseko.

“We are trying to follow the example of His Excellency President Mnangagwa, who has been moving around provinces for the Independence Day celebrations. Next year, we will move to another district. Stakeholders welcomed this move, and preparations are already underway for the event,” she added.