Friends of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle (FOVLS) has undertaken a clean-up and beautification exercise at the Harare Provincial Heroes’ Acre as part of activities to honour Zimbabwe’s liberation war heroes, both living and departed, ahead of Independence Day commemorations.
The pre-Independence campaignbrought together members of the organisation in a show of respect for the country’s founding figures, with a focus on restoring dignity to national memorial sites.
FOVLS national spokesperson Takemore Mazuruse said the initiative served as both a tribute and a reminder of the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
“As we mark 46 years of independence, we join the nation in saluting the liberation war heroes who laid the foundation of our country. One way we show respect is by ensuring that heroes’ shrines remain clean, well-kept and worthy of remembrance,” he said.
Mazuruse added that the clean-up effort also plays a role in educating the public, particularly younger generations, about the cost of independence.
“Independence did not come easily. Lives were lost and others were maimed in the fight for freedom. This day is a reminder of those sacrifices, and we are proud to honour our heroes by maintaining and beautifying their memorials,” he said.
FOVLS founder and chairman Wellington Charuka said the organisation was built on a vision to preserve the memory of liberation heroes through the upkeep of their shrines and graves.
“FOVLS started as a vision in my rural home in Zaka, focusing on paying tribute to departed heroes through maintaining their resting places. We began in Masvingo before expanding nationally, where we secured support and formal registration,” Charuka said.
He noted that the organisation has already rehabilitated 52 graves at the Harare Provincial Heroes’ Acre, with the latest clean-up forming part of broader preparations for this year’s Independence Day celebrations, which were held yesterday in Maphisa, Matabeleland South province.
“In preparation for Independence Day, we undertook this clean-up as a way of honouring our heroes. We also continue to engage relevant stakeholders and follow guidance on the maintenance work required at these shrines,” he said.
Charuka added that FOVLS has been working closely with National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe to ensure proper rehabilitation and preservation of memorial sites.
“We have also engaged with the Mashonaland West Provincial Heroes’ Acre, where we plan to carry out similar clean-up and rehabilitation work,” he said.
FOVLS vice chairperson Winnet Garufu described the initiative as a meaningful gesture of respect for heroes buried across the country, including those represented by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“Honouring our heroes is not only about remembrance, but also about maintaining the dignity of the spaces where they are laid to rest. They did not choose to die; they hoped to see an independent Zimbabwe. Through such efforts, we ensure their legacy remains alive,” Garufu said.
She added that the organisation will continue rolling out community-based stewardship programmes as part of ongoing efforts to preserve national heritage and instill a culture of respect for liberation history.