In October, a civic reception was held at Stevenage Borough Council to celebrate the 35^th anniversary of the twinning of Stevenage with Kadoma in Zimbabwe. To mark this occasion a special welcome was extended to two visitors from the Kadoma Stevenage Link Association, chair Francis Lembani, and Treasurer Jane Chigumira.

The visitors, who had been invited by the Stevenage Kadoma Link Association (SKLA) were welcomed by Mayor Jim Brown and Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, Richard Henry. Councillor Henry declared this moment to be “a remarkable milestone”. He went on to recognise that the occasion marked 35 years of friendship and collaboration between Stevenage and Kadoma, and continued, “This is a partnership that has touched lives in both of our communities. It has created bonds that run deep, and today, we celebrate not only the past, but also the future of this unique link.”

The guiding principle of the link is friendship. Reflecting on this, Councillor Henry said:

“Stevenage looks in admiration at the creativity, resourcefulness, and determination of the Kadoma community. The way the community come together to solve problems and support one another is something we can all learn from, and something I am proud to see here in our communities in Stevenage. We continue to have much to learn from each other and will continue to champion and support our respective communities”.

Louise Holmes, current chair of SKLA said all the achievements of the past 35 years would not have been possible without the support of members of the local community, many of whom were present at the reception. People have given their time and energy to the benefit of both towns. She also acknowledged the support this visit has received from the Borough Council, Stevenage Community Trust and Stevenage Grange Rotary.

The visitors’ two-week programme included many current and potential partnerships, covering schools, the Living Room, North Hertfordshire College, YMCA at The Haven, Junction 7 Creative, Foodshed, Red Shed and others. Through this personal contact, learning flowed in both directions, existing friendships were strengthened, and new friendships formed. It was a great way to celebrate and continue the long story – 35 years of friendship.

For more information about SKLA, email skla@hotmail.co.uk.