In a poignant reminder of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, human remains believed to be those of war heroes have been uncovered in an abandoned mine shaft at Dreamgate Mine, located in the Hippo Valley area of Chiredzi. This discovery comes exactly 45 years after Zimbabwe gained independence, highlighting the ongoing challenge of locating and properly burying many freedom fighters.
The mine shaft, which is estimated to be 20 to 30 meters deep, revealed human bones, skulls, and clothing at its bottom. Enock Shonhiwa, the Director of Dreamgate Mine, reported the find and promptly alerted the police. The site was subsequently visited by Masvingo Provincial leaders, traditional chiefs, and war veterans, who expressed concerns that the remains could belong to liberation war fighters.
A war veteran reflected on the grim history, noting that the presence of rifles ,specifically the same types used during the liberation struggle, suggests these individuals were likely victims of the brutal Rhodesian forces, possibly thrown into the shaft decades ago. The discovery has stirred emotions, with calls for government support to enable war veterans and community leaders to investigate further and honor the fallen appropriately.
Chief Tshovani emphasized the importance of giving these heroes and heroines a dignified burial as a mark of respect for their sacrifices. Lovemore Mandima, Director of the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe’s Southern Region, outlined the next steps, which include systematic mapping of the site, conducting oral interviews with local communities, and gathering historical context to understand the circumstances surrounding the discovery.
This finding aligns with ongoing government efforts to commemorate liberation war heroes by immortalizing their shrines. Masvingo’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, confirmed that the police, army, and National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe are collaborating to ensure the remains receive proper burials in line with national programs honoring fallen heroes.
In addition to the human remains, the site yielded 200 live rounds of ammunition for light machine guns, four AK-47 rifles, two rifle grenades, and various other grenades, underscoring the historical significance of the location and the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
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