Harare, August 14, 2026 – The Herald, Zimbabwe's leading newspaper, highlighted the enduring relevance of Fidel Castro's legacy on the centenary of his birth.
In a commentary by Zimpapers Group analyst Gibson Nyikadzino, The Herald emphasized the words of Munyaradzi Machacha, National Political Commissar of ZANU-PF, regarding Fidel's ideas that inspired young Zimbabweans to join the struggle for liberation and independence.
Machacha paid tribute to Castro, the newspaper noted, for his fundamental role, both before and after the independence of this African nation, as well as for strengthening relations between the two countries.
“We received a great deal of help from Cuba in opening its universities to our students so they could access higher education, while internationally, our anti-colonial and anti-imperialist stance was common, and we advocated for a freer and more balanced international economic and social order,” the leader emphasized.
The Herald praised Cuba for its constant support of Africa’s position in international forums and for its fundamental role in Angola’s resistance against South African apartheid aggression, which led to Namibia’s independence.
Ambassador Susellys Pérez Mesa described Fidel Castro as a “tireless defender of just causes” who dedicated his life, through sacrifice, to the African people, whose ties with Cuba are “unbreakable.”
“He had a deep and special relationship with Africa, which materialized in his support for liberation movements against colonialism and apartheid, as well as in his backing for their subsequent development and in numerous visits to these sister nations,” Pérez Mesa stated.
Fidel Castro is one of the most influential historical figures of the Global South, recognized for his unwavering anti-imperialist and internationalist ideals, the analyst noted.
High-ranking government officials, members of the ZANU-PF Politburo, diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe, and representatives of organizations in solidarity with the island attended the commemorations in this capital.
The celebration included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and an exhibition of photographs depicting meetings between the Historical Leader of the Revolution and high-ranking dignitaries from the African continent.