The official residence of Zimbabwes Ambassador to South Africa David Hamadziripi was a hive of activity as scores of diplomats, South African government officials, captains of industry and media gathered for a grand reception marking 44 years of independence from British colonial rule.
At the prestigious ceremony on Thursday, Hamadziripi and his wife Dr Jessica Hamadziripi welcomed the winding procession of guests streaming into the Pretoria residence. The couple was assisted by Zimbabwes Consul General in Joburg, Eria Phiri and other senior Zimbabwean diplomats in welcoming the guests.
The South African government was represented by Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises Obed Bapela who was the guest of honour at the festivities.
In his address, Hamadziripi said the presence of the South African delegation led by Bapela is testimony to the strong bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood between the two countries and the people.
Ambassador of Zimbabwe to South Africa, David Hamadziripi and his wife, Dr Jessica Hamadziripi welcomed several guests at their official residence for a reception marking Zimbabwe's 44 years of independence from British rule. Picture: SuppliedWe are celebrating this day under the theme: Zim@44 unity, peace and development towards Vision 2030. In commemorating this important day in the history of our country, we draw inspiration from the spirit, determination and sacrifice that brought about our independence, sovereignty freedom and peace , said Hamadziripi.
I am pleased that, just last month, on the 14th to be precise, our two governments signed a memorandum of understanding for the supply of treated water from Beitbridge in Zimbabwe to Musina in South Africa . We look forward to more agreements of cooperation between us in the near future, in this vital sector and of course in other sectors, he said.
The cake at Ambassador David Hamadziripi's residence in Pretoria where the Embassy of Zimbabwe in South Africa celebrated Independence Day. Picture: SuppliedHonourable Deputy Minister, I wish to express our deep appreciation to the government of South Africa for your consistent and invaluable support in calling for the unconditional removal of the illegal sanctions imposed on our country by some Western countries. These sanctions violate our human rights and indeed the rights of many others in this region.
Programme director at the Zimbabwe Embassy's Independence Day reception, media personality Hugo Ribatika, with Ambassador of Zimbabwe to South Africa, David Hamadziripi and and Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises Obed Bapela in the background. Picture: SuppliedStatistics from the 2022 census showed that South Africa is home to just over one million Zimbabwean nationals.
Hamadziripi urged his compatriots to be exemplary while sojourning in the neighbouring country.
I cannot conclude my remarks without a specific message for my fellow Zimbabweans here in South Africa. I invite you to remember our Presidents (Emmerson Mnangagwa) call that nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo (a nation is built by its own citizens), said the Zimbabwean envoy.
I also urge you, as you enjoy the hospitality of our brothers and sisters here, to be among the best of the guests this country is hosting.
Ambassador of Zimbabwe to South Africa, David Hamadziripi with (from left) Ambassador of Russia to South Africa Ilya Rogachev; Dr Jessica Hamadziripi; Head of Chancery at Embassy of Zimbabwe, Shepherd Gwenzi; Consul General of Zimbabwe in Joburg, Eria Phiri and Defence Attach at Embassy of Zimbabwe, General Christopher Sibanda. Picture: SuppliedAs South Africa gears up for celebrations marking 30 years of freedom and democracy at the end of this month, Hamadziripi also congratulated the South African government and its people for the milestone.
Regarding the upcoming elections, set for May, Hamadziripi extended well wishes for peaceful polls.
The people of Zimbabwe wish you memorable celebrations as well as successful and peaceful elections next month as you continue to broaden and deepen your system of democracy, he said before inviting guests to toast to the good health of President Cyril Ramaphosa, excellent relations between the two countries and people, and global peace and security.
Goat tripe was among the African delicacies enjoyed by guests at the Embassy of Zimbabwe's Independence Day celebrations in Pretoria. Picture: Jonisayi Maromo/IOLAddressing the event, Bapela said the Southern African Development Community has been making major strides in consolidating democracy.
In 2023, several countries held general elections including the Republic of Zimbabwe, the Kingdom of eSwatini and the Democratic Republic of Congo. I wish to reiterate our congratulations to His Excellency the President of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa for his relation and the Zanu PF party for winning a majority
