Liberation heritage and nation-building

ZIMSEC A Level · Heritage Studies · Form 6

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The liberation struggle as heritage

Memories, sites, songs and literature of the First and Second Chimurenga/Umvukela shape national identity: National Heroes' Acre, provincial heroes' acres, shrines, liberation war sites (e.g. Chimoio and Nyadzonia in Mozambique, Freedom Camp in Zambia), museums, and Chimurenga songs.

Nation-building after 1980

Policy of reconciliation (1980) and the Unity Accord (22 December 1987).
Expansion of education and health in the 1980s.
National symbols, holidays (Independence Day, Heroes and Defence Forces Days, Unity Day) and the Heritage Studies curriculum.

Contested memory

Different groups remember the past differently; recognition of all who contributed and addressing painful episodes (including the Gukurahundi disturbances of the 1980s) are part of national healing. The National Peace and Reconciliation Commission was established to promote reconciliation.

Patriotism and citizenship

Love of country expressed through service, respect for national symbols, protecting resources and participating responsibly in democracy.

Challenges to nation-building

Economic hardship, emigration, political polarisation, corruption and regional inequalities.

Exam tip: Show awareness that national memory is contested and that reconciliation is an ongoing process.

Check yourself

What does the Unity Accord of 1987 commemorate?
Give two ways liberation heritage is preserved.
Which commission promotes national peace and reconciliation?

Show answers

The uniting of ZANU and ZAPU, celebrated on 22 December as National Unity Day.
Any two: heroes' acres, museums, liberation war sites, songs and literature, commemorations.
The National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC).

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