Savious Madanhire
Mtapa Hall, a historic building in Gweru, was renamed Monomutapa Hall after being declared a national monument by the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe.
This iconic hall played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence, hosting the first ZANU PF Congress in 1964.
On May 21-23, 1964, the hall hosted the first ZANU PF Congress, a gathering that would shape the nation’s future.
However, during this landmark event, key leaders were elected, including the late Ndabaningi Sithole as President of the party Zanu, the Late leopold Takawira as Vice President, the Late Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe as Secretary General, the Late Cde Herbert Chitepo as Chairman, the late Enos Nkala as Treasurer, the late Michael Mahwema as Organising Secretary, the Late Edison Sithole as Secretary for Publicity, the late Cde Nathan Shamuyarira as Secretary for External Affairs, the late Edison Zvobvo as Deputy Secretary General, the late Simpson Mutambanenge as secretary for Pan African Affairs, the Late Cde Washington Mariyanga as Secretary for youths.
These leaders played a crucial role in the liberation struggle, and the hall provides a rail to reflect on the significance of that Congress. “
The Congress marked a turning point in Zimbabwe’s history, as it was then that the decision to wage the struggle for independence was made.
Following the mantra “We are our own Liberators” through the barrel of the Gun, was adopted, setting the stage for the liberation war that led to Zimbabwe’s independence.
The Congress did not just mark ZANU as a nationalist movement but also dedicated the party to fighting for independence from colonial rule.
It defined Zanu’s ideology and objectives centered around achieving freedom and social justice for the people of Zimbabwe.
The Congress was also attended by notable figures, including His Excellency the current President of Zimbabwe and SADC Chairman, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, who was part of a group trained in China, highlighting the party’s early international connections and commitment to the liberation struggle.
It is now 61 years since the first ZANU Congress that shaped the roadmap towards the liberation of our motherland through armed struggle hence Mtapa Hall was declared a national monument, a recognition that acknowledges the hall’s significant role in shaping the country’s history and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation’s founding fathers.
As Zimbabwe continues to celebrate its independence, Mtapa Hall stands as a testament to the bravery and determination of the nation’s liberation fighters.
The hall’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, leadership, and the unwavering commitment to freedom and social justice.