Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Walter Mzembi was moved to tears after receiving a life-size portrait of President Mugabe during the 37th Africa Travel Association Congress in Victoria Falls. The portrait, depicting Mugabe in his middle age and inscribed "Man of the Moment," was a gift from the Friends of Joshua Trust, presented at the end of the official opening of the congress.
Minister Mzembi, visibly emotional, expressed his surprise and gratitude for the unexpected gift. "I was overcome by emotion. I did not expect this. It is monumental! At times I fail to explain to the ordinary person how it feels to serve under a first republican President," he said in an interview. The portrait, an oil painting, captured a significant moment for Mzembi, who found it difficult to hold back his tears.
Before Mzembi's emotional moment, Vice President Mujuru, the Guest of Honour at the event, received a portrait of Mbuya Nehanda. ATA executive director Mr. Edward Bergman was also honored with a portrait of King Lobengula. These portraits were part of an exhibition aimed at promoting Zimbabwe's rich history and culture to the world, with plans to take the exhibition to India.
Friends of Joshua Trust chief executive Ms. Beverly Pullen explained the rationale behind the gifts. The portrait of Mbuya Nehanda was given to VP Mujuru to honor her representation of a true African, caring, and goal-oriented woman. VP Mujuru reflected on the historical significance of Mbuya Nehanda, who was hanged in 1898. "She represents the courage we have, the courage that made me at the age of 18 leave my parents for war and prove that there is no difference between a girl and boy child," Mujuru said.
Mr. Bergman, on the other hand, expressed his intention to display King Lobengula's portrait at the ATA headquarters in the United States, further emphasizing the importance of showcasing Zimbabwe's historical figures on an international stage.
The use of portraits to honor significant figures in Zimbabwe's history highlights the power of art in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. These portraits serve not only as gifts but also as educational tools that can inspire and inform future generations about the country's rich history.
The emotional response of Minister Mzembi and the significance of the portraits presented at the Africa Travel Association Congress underscore the profound impact of art in celebrating and preserving history. These portraits not only honor individual contributions but also serve as a bridge connecting Zimbabwe's rich past with the present and future.
By showcasing these historical figures, the Friends of Joshua Trust and the Africa Travel Association are playing a crucial role in promoting Zimbabwe's cultural heritage on a global stage.
Fat Chance: Diet Coke Fights Obesity?
For related articles and more information, please visit OCA's Food Safety page and our Millions Against Monsanto page.
Overweight 6-Year-Old Vows To Change Lifestyle After Second Heart Attack
HOUSTON—Describing his second heart failure in the span of two years as “a real wake up call,” obese 6-year-old Nicholas Bleyer announced Tuesday that he was finally trying to turn his life around.
Obesity rates rise in county schools
By the time students in Forsyth County reach high school, more than 40 percent of them are overweight or obese, according to a BMI study released by Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.
