Zimbabwe War Veterans Challenge Youth In National Building

Jabulani Sibanda is the president of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans. The organization represents those who fought during the independence struggle., a photo by Pan-African News Wire File Photos on Flickr.

War vets challenge youths in national building

Sunday, 11 August 2013 00:00
Tendai Chara Sunday Mail Reporter

Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans’ Association chairman Cde Jabulani Sibanda has challenged youths to complement the efforts of the gallant sons and daughters of this country who sacrificed their lives to free the country from colonial oppression. In an interview last week, Cde Sibanda encouraged young Zimbabweans to actively participate in national development and help the nation prosper.

“This year’s Heroes’ Day commemorations are, in a way more than special as we celebrate Zanu-PF’s victory in the harmonised elections.

“We are, therefore, dedicating this very special victory to our youths who are the future leaders of this country.We are challenging them to come forward and take over from where those who fought for our independence left,” he said.

Cde Sibanda said the youths should emulate their peers who fought to liberate the country by using their expertise and knowledge to develop the country.

“The youths must come in and help develop the country as managers, farmers, teachers and business people. Unlike the war veterans who engaged in a bitter war, today’s youths are expected to provide expertise.

“As a nation, I am urging our people to remain united as we move forward under a different political dispensation.

“We are coming from the inclusive government and our focus now is on rebuilding our country. Everyone must become part and parcel of the economic policies that were implemented by Zanu-PF.

“With the victory of Zanu-PF we are now a free nation since we are coming from the shackles of the inclusive government. Free people work harder for themselves and for other people.”

Cde Sibanda urged all Zimbabweans to attend national events like Heroes’ Day commemorations, regardless of their political affiliation.

“Opposition parties like we have seen in the past must desist from boycotting such important national events like Heroes’ Day.

“They must appreciate that it was through the lives and blood of the heroes that they are now able to exercise their right to participate in elections freely, unlike during the colonial era,” he said.