By Fungai B. Mutizwa
GROWING up in colonial Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe, was an experience laden with the harsh realities of systemic racism and enforced subservience. As a black person in a society stratified by race, the daily indignities and outright injustices were a constant reminder of our perceived inferiority. We were second-class citizens in our own land, subjected to a regime that dehumanised us and relegated us to the margins of society. In Rhodesia, the colour of our skin dictated our social standing, our opportunities and our quality of life. Education, healthcare, employment and even basic human rights were classified according to race.
The oppressive policies of the colonial government ensured that blacks were confined to the least desirable parts of the country, both geographically and socioeconomically. Every aspect of our lives was designed to remind us of our ‘inferior’ status. We were made to feel that we were not deserving of the best things in life, that we should be content with the scraps left by the white colonisers. This was starkly evident during the festive season of Christmas, a time typically associated with joy and generosity. However, for us, it was a time when the deep-seated inequalities of our society were most visible.
Christmas was the only time we experienced a semblance of what life could be like if we were not subjected to the systemic oppression that defined our existence. Yet, even this semblance of generosity was tainted by the reality that what we received were not new, carefully chosen gifts, but rather cast-offs from white families. Old clothes, worn and outgrown by white children, were given to us as charity. The new khakis we received once a year were the only exceptions to this hand-me-down culture, serving as a reminder of what it meant to be deemed inferior.
The struggle for independence in Rhodesia was long and arduous, marked by resistance, bloodshed and immense sacrifice. The liberation movements, led by figures like the late former President Robert Mugabe, the late Vice President Joshua Nkomo, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who belonged to the famous Crocodile Gang, one of the pioneers of the Second Chimurenga, sought to dismantle the colonial structure and create a nation where every individual, regardless of race, could live with dignity and equality. The years leading up to independence in 1980 were fraught with hardships. The protracted liberation war — the Second Chimurenga — was a brutal confrontation between the colonial regime and the black majority seeking self-determination. It was a time of great turmoil, but also of unyielding hope.
The promise of a free Zimbabwe was a beacon that inspired countless individuals to fight against the injustices of colonial rule. Independence in 1980 marked the beginning of a new era for Zimbabwe. The country was reborn, shedding the shackles of colonialism and embracing the ideals of freedom, equality and self-governance.
The euphoria that accompanied independence was palpable; it was a moment of collective triumph, a realisation of the dreams and aspirations of generations who had longed for liberation. One of the key initiatives of the Second Republic has been the drive towards economic liberalisation. Policies aimed at improving the ease of doing business, attracting foreign investment and revitalising key sectors such as education, agriculture, mining and tourism have been introduced. These efforts are designed to create a more inclusive economy, where opportunities are accessible to all Zimbabweans. ‘Leaving no place and no one behind’ is a philosophy that resonates deeply with me, given my experiences growing up in colonial Rhodesia.
The Second Republic’s commitment to this ideal is evident in its policies and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive development. Education is a cornerstone of this vision. Investments in education infrastructure, teacher training and curriculum development are geared towards ensuring that every child in Zimbabwe has access to quality education. This focus on education is crucial, as it empowers individuals and communities, breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a foundation for long-term prosperity. In this regard, I am proud to state that at Makumbe Hilltop College, we have founded an institution seeking not just regional but international standards in the education sector.
Our mission is to provide a world-class education that equips our students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a globalised world. We believe that by raising the bar in education, we can contribute significantly to the national development agenda and foster a generation of leaders who will drive Zimbabwe forward.
At Makumbe Hilltop College, we are committed to creating an environment that nurtures excellence, creativity and critical thinking. Our educational set-up is designed to be rigorous and comprehensive, incorporating the best practices in education.
Moreover, Makumbe Hilltop College is dedicated to addressing some of the pressing social issues facing our country, particularly the scourge of drug and substance abuse among the youth. We recognise that education is not just about academic achievement, but also about shaping character and promoting healthy, productive lifestyles.
Our school implements comprehensive programmes aimed at preventing things like drug abuse. We believe that by providing a supportive and nurturing environment, we can help our students develop into wellrounded individuals who can contribute positively to society. Reflecting on my journey from growing up in colonial Rhodesia to experiencing the promise of the Second Republic, I am struck by the resilience and determination of the Zimbabwean people. Despite the challenges and setbacks, we have remained steadfast in our pursuit of a better future.
The vision of leaving no place and noone behind is not just an aspirational slogan; it is a guiding principle that must inform every policy, every action and every decision we make as a people. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and committed to defending the motherland with all we have. Makumbe Hilltop College is an institution meeting international standards and addressing critical social issues like early marriages, we are committed to shaping the future leaders of Zimbabwe. Our students are not just recipients of knowledge; they are active participants in the creation of a better, more inclusive society.
Makumbe Hilltop College provides a world-class education that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive.
As the founder of Makumbe Hilltop College, I am deeply committed to the vision of ‘leaving no-one and no place behind’ and attaining Vision 2030 of an upper-middle income economy, where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Fungai Mutizwa is the founder of Makumbe Hilltop College as well as a social entrepreneur and educationist dedicated to transforming rural communities through the introduction of the latest technologies and innovations. Feedback and comments to cell 0772 315 282, 0712 547 694