On Saturday, the President of the Republic, Daniel Chapo, expressed satisfaction with the stage of preparation work at the Machava Stadium in Maputo, saying that "it's going well" and that everything will be ready by June 25 to host the central festivities of the 50th anniversary of national independence.

During his visit to the emblematic venue, the Head of State called for unity, peace and the active participation of Mozambicans in the celebrations, and paid a heartfelt tribute to journalist Atanásio Marcos, who died the day before, highlighting his legacy as a member of the new generation of Mozambican media.

Speaking to the press at the end of his morning visit, the statesman said that, according to the technicians involved, the stadium will be "completely ready" by the 24th, the date set for the dress rehearsal of the celebrations.

"The last rehearsal is going to take place so that on June 25, when we celebrate the 50th anniversary of our national independence, we can have everything in perfect condition and host the party in perfect conditions," he said.

The President invited all Mozambicans, particularly those living in Greater Maputo, to take part in the festivities at the site where independence was proclaimed in 1975.

On the occasion, he also saluted Caminhos-de-Ferro de Moçambique (CFM) for the 130th anniversary of its foundation and praised the rehabilitation of Machava Stadium as a "gift to the entire Mozambican population".

Underlining the importance of the moment, the President of the Republic said that the celebration of the 50th anniversary should also be an opportunity to assess the country's progress and set goals for the future.

"During these 50 years there have been many achievements, but there are also challenges and we will continue to work. [...] We're going to evaluate the 50 years and plan for the next 50 years," he said.

The Head of State appealed to the individual responsibility of each citizen in building the country, stressing that development is only possible in an environment of stability.

"There can be no development without peace and security, which is why peace and security are fundamental goods. [...] The most important thing is that each of us has to do our part to maintain peace, reconciliation and, above all, love of neighbor and brotherhood," he said.