Eastern Province Minister Charles Shawa says Luangwa district connects easily to the two neighbouring countries, hence the need to revive ZIMOZA.
He was speaking in Luangwa on Saturday when he officiated at the 2008 Dantho traditional ceremony of the Chikunda people of Chief Mpuka’s chiefdom.
He said once instituted, ZIMOZA would promote dialogue among the people of the three countries and improve trade management of the shared natural resources.
Mr Shawa noted that Mozambique and Zimbabwe would also benefit through tourism activities and development of social culture integration.
He said Government has committed itself to improving the road network in the district.
Mr Shawa said through the Road Development Agency, Government has set aside funds to undertake feasibility studies on the main road from the bridge to the boma.
He told the gathering that Government has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Food and Agriculture Organisation for the maintenance of the 14-kilometre Kavalamanja feeder road.
Speaking at the same function, Chief Mpuka’s representative, Joseph Mpuka, commended Government for its commitment shown through mobilisation of resources to improve the road network in his chiefdom.
The Dantho traditional ceremony is celebrated to pay homage to the ancestors and pray to God for good rains and harvest.
Mr Shawa said traditional ceremonies are important in the nation as they are not only a unifying factor, but serve as a reminder of the country’s norms and traditions.
He said the Dantho ceremony is important because it teaches young people about the culture and heritage of the Chikunda people.
Chief Ntunda of Mozambique, Senior Chief Mburuma of Luangwa and Senior Chieftainess Nkomesha’s representative, Mr Lupupa attended the ceremony.
Mr Mpuka said on behalf of the chief that the ceremony promotes unity and co-operation among the Chikunda people. – ZANIS.