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Zimbabwe Marks Independence Anniversary Amid COVID-19 Lockdown

Columbus Mavhunga

   HARARE, ZIMABABWE - Zimbabwe on Saturday marked the 40th anniversary of
   its independence from Britain, but unlike years past, there were no
   celebrations. Zimbabwe is on lockdown and battling the spread of
   COVID-19 amid shortages of resources.

   Some citizens say that even if there were no coronavirus pandemic, they
   would be in no mood to party. Their reasons vary.

   President Emmerson Mnangagwa delivered a televised address Saturday
   from the State House instead of the traditional way -- in person in a
   football stadium.

   "This year, we had planned to celebrate this grand occasion, in
   Bulawayo province," he said. "However, the reality of the COVID-19
   pandemic is seeing us endure a necessary lockdown in our homes.
   Although we are physically separated, we are united in spirit.

   "The time to celebrate together shall come. '¦ Today, our task, in
   relation to COVID-19, is to stay at home, keep our distance and wash
   our hands. We celebrate our milestone 40th independence anniversary in
   the context of unprecedented times, that of the threat brought about by
   the COVID-19 pandemic."

   Uncertainty

   To date, Zimbabwe has recorded 24 cases and three deaths. Some
   citizens, like computer science student Raphael Maramba, 23, say the
   pandemic has led to uncertainty about the future.

   "I am feeling independent but just stressed over the corona[virus]
   thing," he said. "We do know what happens after Independence [Day]. We
   will go back to school or lockdown extension. If there was no
   corona[virus] I would be happy. This corona[virus] thing is affecting
   my studies. If I do not go back to school this year, it means I will
   have a year extension. So, it will not [be] good for me."

   A 33-year-old woman who wished to be identified only as Rutendo cited
   financial challenges and a lack of upward mobility for not wanting to
   celebrate the anniversary.

   "Personally, I am not independent and I am not happy, because it has
   been a struggle since my adulthood until now," she said. "We talk about
   financial freedom, but it is happening to a few elite. Most of us are
   still struggling. So, independence is just a word. If you are not
   connected, then you continue with the struggle. Hard work does not
   matter if you are not connected."

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