ED urges national dev't support on Heroes Day

**Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa (2nd L, Front) attends the 45th Heroes Day celebration in Harare, capital of Zimbabwe, on Aug. 11, 2025. (Photo by Shaun Jusa/Xinhua)**

Xinhua- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday urged citizens to support national development in honor of the fallen heroes during the liberation struggle while addressing the 45th Heroes Day celebration in Harare, the country's capital.

Mnangagwa noted that to immortalize the sacrifices made by war heroes and heroines who lost their lives during the liberation struggle against colonial rule, the government is spearheading various economic development projects nationwide to enhance the quality of life for citizens.

"Independence in 1980 brought about political independence, while the struggle for the economy remains ongoing," said Mnangagwa, adding that in honor of those who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the country, all Zimbabweans should equally play a leading role in spurring economic growth.

"Despite challenges characterized by the effects of illegal sanctions, fluctuating international mineral commodity prices, and a fluid global trade environment, our economy is demonstrating remarkable resilience," said Mnangagwa.

The country's bumper harvest in wheat, maize, and traditional grains; record levels in tobacco production;the rebound growth of the national herd and increased milk production are testament to the hard work and perseverance of Zimbabweans, he said.

"We, thus, celebrate farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture sector, who continue to be worthy custodians of the land which our heroes and heroines paid for with their precious blood," he added.

He said notable growth has also been recorded in the iron and steel sector, cement production, and food processing, among others.

"As a nation richly endowed with mineral resources, we are determined to ensure that these translate into economic benefits for all citizens and empowerment of host communities," Mnangagwa added.

Heroes Day is a public holiday in Zimbabwe, annually observed on the second Monday of August to pay tribute to fallen heroes.

Senior government officials, diplomats, and families of fallen heroes also took part in the activity at a gathering at the National Heroes Acre, where honors and awards were conferred on living and departed heroes for their outstanding accomplishments in Zimbabwe.