Africa Liberation Archive Exhibition Officially Opens at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo

By Pronellah Lunga

The Africa Liberation Archive Exhibition, a collaboration between the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Foundation, the Museum of African Liberation, the Russian State University for the Humanities, and the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, officially opened on Thursday.

The exhibition showcases a rich collection of archival photographs and documents gathered by Russian sources during Africa’s liberation struggle, specifically focusing on the training and support provided to Zimbabwe’s ZIPRA and ZAPU forces.

Historical materials, obtained from archives in Moscow and other private collections, were curated with assistance from Russian military personnel who worked closely with liberation soldiers.

Speaking during the event, the Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Honorable Judith Ncube noted that the exhibition reflects on the historical relationship between Africa and the former USSR.

“We are gathered here today to reflect on the historical ties USSR shares with our continent. We are also reminded of the spirit of solidarity between Africa and the USSR, a relationship built not on colonial ambition but on mutual respect and the shared aspiration for freedom of all people,” said the minister.

She also mentioned what the exhibition entails on the role of USSR in the African struggle for freedom.

“The archival and documentation exhibition are unveilin today is more than a collection of photographs and documents. It is a testament of the friendship forged in the struggle against against oppression. It highlights the invaluable role of USSR played in supporting various movements across Africa” said the Honourable Minister.

Meanwhile, Director of the Center for Applied Studies at the Russian State University for the Humanities, Dr. Alexander Zotin shared that this marks their second exhibition, following an inaugural show in Harare last year.

“The Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo National Foundation is our co- organizer of the exhibition in the National Gallery of Zimbabwe. We have organized the archival exhibition dedicated to the Soviet and Russian Role in African Liberation. This is our second exhibition in Zimbabwe, the first one was carried in Harare December 2023” said Dr Alexander Zotin

The Soviet/Russian Role in African Liberation exhibition runs from 1 November to 7 January at the Zimbabwe National Gallery in Bulawayo.