THE organisers of this year's Gadade celebrations held to remember a group of brave Ndebele warriors who, against all odds, fought vigorously against the British South Africa Company's efforts to colonise the southern part of Zimbabwe in 1893, have hailed citizens for supporting and attending the event, describing it as an overwhelmingly success.
The celebrations were held recently, with Chiefs' Council of Zimbabwe president Mtshane Khumalo gracing the event.
uMhlahlo weSizwe sikaMthwakazi yesterday expressed gratitude to those who attended and supported the commemorations.
“Your presence honoured the spirits of our forebears and strengthened our collective commitment to preserving our heritage. We extend special appreciation to the President of the Chiefs Council, Induna uMtshane, together with Chief Mayenga (uFuyane) and Induna uSibasa, for gracing the occasion,” the statement read.
An estimated 5 000 people attended the event.
The clash, known as the Battle of Imbembesi, was a turning point in the First Matabele War becoming a symbol of Ndebele pride and resilience.
The remembered soldiers came from Imbizo, Ameva, iSiziba, iHlathi, iNsukamini and Ingubo regiments and the battle took place at Gadade, 50km from Bulawayo along the Harare Road.
The celebrations ran under the theme, Honouring the brave, preserving our heritage.
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An estimated 6 000 Ndebele soldiers perished in the battle, which also claimed the lives of white soldiers, whose graves are in Mbembesi.
