Story by Providence Maraneli
AS Zimbabwe marks 38 years since the signing of the historic Unity Accord, leaders and communities in Matabeleland South say the enduring peace forged in 1987 has laid a firm foundation for the province’s socio-economic growth and national cohesion.
The Unity Accord, signed by the late President Robert Mugabe and the late Vice President Dr Joshua Nkomo, ended years of political conflict and ushered in a period of stability that continues to shape development outcomes across the country.
Provincial leaders in Matabeleland South link this stability to a series of major infrastructure and economic projects implemented since the advent of the Second Republic in 2017. These include the establishment of Zimbabwe’s first Village Business Unit, the first drought mitigation centre, the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, and the development of the Beitbridge Mining and Energy Industrial Park, projects that have become national reference points.
Bulilima legislator Honourable Dingimuzi Phuti said Unity Day remains significant not only as a historical milestone but as a guiding principle for inclusive development.
“ We respect the day because it brought a new way of doing and seeing things. Now the President is saying we are leaving no one and no place behind, this is because of unity,” he said.
Senator Esther Nyathi said the Accord fostered tolerance and social cohesion that continue to define political and community life in the province.
“We are much indebted to ubaba UMgabe lobaba UNkomo for the prevailing peace and unity. Now, here in Matabeleland South, we do not elect someone on the basis of their tribe but on their being. That is the level of tolerance brought about by the unity accord.”
Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Management Dr Evelyn Ndlovu noted that the concentration of flagship national projects in the province reflects the spirit of national oneness.
“We as the people of Matabeleland South are proud of the massive development the first village business unit, the first drought mitigation centre and other flagship projects were done here by the President as a demonstration that we are one nation and this gives us joy and it is from that we salute the peace that was brought about by the unity accord.”
Minister of Industry and Commerce Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu described Unity Day as more than a symbolic commemoration for the province.
“We have a President who is a unifier , we now have the traditional leaders tackling the Gukurahundi issue and this is happening under President Mnangagwa who does not want to leave any one behind in issues of development. As Matabeleland South the unity day is not just a day we rever it.”
Looking ahead, Matabeleland South is positioning itself for further growth as it prepares to host the 2026 Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa, the home area of the late Dr Joshua Nkomo, an event expected to further cement the province’s role in Zimbabwe’s national narrative.
