President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially lit the Independence Flame at Maphisa Stadium in Matobo District as Zimbabwe commemorates 46 years of independence. (Picture via Ministry of Information)
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially lit the Independence Flame at Maphisa Stadium in Matobo District as Zimbabwe commemorates 46 years of independence.
The lighting of the flame forms part of a symbolic national tradition marking the country’s liberation, with the journey beginning on April 10 at Zezani Assembly Point in Beitbridge District.
- Advertisement -
From there, the flame was carried through several districts, including Gwanda, Insiza and Mangwe, before arriving in Matobo for the main ceremony.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially lit the Independence Flame at Maphisa Stadium in Matobo District as Zimbabwe commemorates 46 years of independence. (Picture via Ministry of Information)
The event featured a parade by members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, reflecting the military’s role in the country’s history and independence struggle.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and his wife Minnie Baloyi seen here at Independence Day celebrations, 18 April 2026 (Picture via Ministry of Information)Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and his wife Minnie Baloyi seen here at Independence Day celebrations, 18 April 2026 (Picture via Ministry of Information)
Members of the diplomatic corps were also in attendance, underscoring international solidarity and engagement as Zimbabwe marked the milestone.
- Advertisement -
President Emmerson Mnangagwa inspects the Parade, at Maphisa Stadium for the Independence Day celebrations, 18 April 2026 (Picture via Ministry of Information)President Emmerson Mnangagwa inspects the Parade, at Maphisa Stadium for the Independence Day celebrations, 18 April 2026 (Picture via Ministry of Information)President Emmerson Mnangagwa inspects the Parade, at Maphisa Stadium for the Independence Day celebrations, 18 April 2026 (Picture via Ministry of Information)
The Independence Flame ceremony remains a central feature of the country’s commemorations, symbolising unity, sacrifice and the enduring legacy of the liberation struggle.
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and his wife Mrs Miniyothabo Chiwenga are seen here arriving at Maphisa Stadium in Matobo District for the 46th Independence Day celebrations on 18 April 2026.
Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Susan Matsunga is facing accusations of “selling out” after she publicly praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his adviser Paul Tungwarara during the commissioning of a borehole project in Budiriro North.
Members of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) including its legislator Daniel Molokele were attacked by alleged Zanu-PF thugs during a by-election campaign in Matobo over the weekend.
Exiled former cabinet minister Saviour Kasukuwere said he 'receives calls and pleas from disgruntled Zanu PF cadres on a daily basis' adding that he devised a solution to help them and “save the revolutionary movement.”
Police have released names of the five artisanal miners who died at Nugget Gold Mine in Matobo, Matabeleland South after a tunnel collapsed following a gold rush on Monday.
