The ZANU PF Matabeleland North Province has unanimously resolved to lobby the government to declare July 1 a public holiday in honor of the late Vice President and liberation icon, Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo. Dr. Nkomo, affectionately known as "Father Zimbabwe," passed away on July 1, 1999, leaving behind a legacy of struggle and sacrifice for Zimbabwe's independence.
The proposal to declare July 1 a public holiday is a testament to Dr. Nkomo's enduring impact on Zimbabwe's history. As a key figure in the country's liberation struggle, Dr. Nkomo played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's future. His legacy extends beyond his political achievements, as he is remembered for his commitment to justice, equality, and unity.
The resolution was adopted during a Provincial Coordinating Committee meeting in Lupane, where provincial leaders emphasized the need to further immortalize Dr. Nkomo's legacy. According to Cde Richard Moyo, Chairperson for ZANU PF Matabeleland North Province, "We want the founding father of Zimbabwe to be observed in a way where a day is set as a public holiday. This is what the people here are saying, and it is an echo from the year 2024."
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Dr. Nkomo's contributions to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle have already been recognized in various ways. The Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo, statues, and roads named after him serve as testaments to his enduring legacy. The proposed public holiday would further cement his place in Zimbabwe's history.
The ZANU PF Matabeleland North Province's resolutions also include a recommendation for President Emerson Mnangagwa to continue driving the national development agenda till at least 2030. This move underscores the province's confidence in the president's leadership and vision for the country's future.
The proposal to declare July 1 a public holiday has been met with enthusiasm, with many seeing it as a step towards national unity. By honoring Dr. Nkomo's legacy, Zimbabweans can come together to celebrate their shared history and heritage. As Themba Nyoni from Bulawayo province noted, "Recognising Nkomo's role in the liberation struggle is a positive step toward national unity".
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