Bulawayo prepares for Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day events

Bulawayo is set to host provincial commemorations for Heroes Day and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Day. Zanu-PF Bulawayo provincial chairperson Jabulani Sibanda stated that the city is fully prepared to join the national observances.

The Heroes Day commemorations are scheduled for August 10 under the theme “Lest We Forget.” This will be followed by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day on August 11, which carries the theme “ZDF: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030.”

In Bulawayo, the provincial shrine in Nkulumane will serve as the venue for the Heroes Day events. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day celebrations are planned to take place at White City Stadium. These local events run alongside national commemorations held at Rufaro Stadium and the National Heroes Acre in Harare.

Speaking at a photographic exhibition at the National University of Science and Technology on Monday, Sibanda noted that preparations in the province have reached an advanced stage. He described the act of honouring heroes as a fundamental part of the local culture and way of life.

Sibanda emphasized that the commemorations should not be treated as isolated annual occurrences. He argued that remembering liberation icons is a continuous national duty that should influence the daily conduct, values, and patriotism of all citizens. He suggested that true remembrance is shown through how people work, communicate, and promote unity while rejecting tribal divisions.

Heroes Day is observed annually on the second Monday of August to recognise those who fought for independence in 1980. The subsequent day honours the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for their role in maintaining national security and sovereignty. The upcoming events are expected to involve government officials, war veterans, the public, and security service members.