Zimbabwe to erect statues of Mugabe, Nkomo, Parirenyatwa in Harare

Zimbabwe’s cabinet has resolved to erect two statues in Harare.

“The nation is futher advised that in recognition of the roles played by Cde Robert .G. Mugabe and Dr Joshua M.N.Nkomo , who selflessly dedicated their lives for the Liberation of Zimbabwe, Cabinet approved the erection of statues in Harare,” said Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa on Tuesday,

“The statue of Cde R.G Mugabe will be erected at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, while Dr.J.M.N. Nkomo statue will be erected at the trumpet Interchange at the intersection of Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo and Glenara Roads,” she added.

For Nkomo it will be the second statue in his honour, with one already in Bulawayo.

“In honor of the late nationalist and First black medical doctor and physician and first Vice President of the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU), the late Dr. Tichafa Parirenyatwa, a statue will be erected at an appropriate entrance to the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals,” she continued.

The new statues will be pursuant to that of Mbuya Nehanda on the corner of Samora Machel Avenue and Julius Nyerere Way.

The context and timing for the announcement is curious. Zimbabwe is in election mode and if Zanu-PF were to lose, it is not clear if these motions would carry forward.

They must be that confident.

It could also be the Heroes Day excitement, but who is to know?

No time frame was given for the construction of the statues.