President Cde, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has described the late national heroes as mentors and standard-bearers whose legacies will inspire generations to come, as the nation bid farewell to three distinguished liberation war veterans at the National Heroes Acre.
Speaking during the burial of Cde Elison Mupamaonde, Cde Cosmas Chiringa and Major General (Rtd) Dr Herbert Chingono, the President said the trio served Zimbabwe with unwavering patriotism, humility and distinction across different phases of the country’s history.
“These gallant National Heroes we are laying to rest at this National Heroes Shrine were mentors, and standard-bearers, whose legacies will inspire generations to come,” he said.
President Mnangagwa extended his condolences to the Mupamaonde, Chiringa and Chingono families, noting that the nation shared in their grief following the loss of “gallant sons of the soil” who dedicated their lives to the liberation and development of Zimbabwe.
Cde Mupamaonde, who died on March 3 at the age of 76, was recognised for his role as an early liberation war cadre and artillery specialist, having trained in Tanzania and the former Soviet Union.
He later commanded operations in Mashonaland West, contributing significantly to the war effort.
Cde Chiringa, who passed away on March 9 aged 67, was described as a disciplined cadre and seasoned public administrator whose career in Government spanned nearly four decades.
He played a key role in local governance and the implementation of national development programmes, including land reform.
Major General (Rtd) Dr Chingono, who died on March 15 aged 68, was honoured for his distinguished military career and academic contributions.
A decorated commander, he rose through the ranks to become a senior officer in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and later served in key Government roles.
President Mnangagwa said the three heroes embodied values of discipline, loyalty, patriotism and selflessness, adding that their contributions cut across the liberation struggle, military service and public administration.
He urged citizens and public officials to emulate the dedication and work ethic of the departed heroes, stressing that national development hinges on integrity, professionalism and commitment to duty.
“To achieve Vision 2030, our civil service must be an administrative engine of precision, anchored by the unrelenting work ethic that our National Heroes displayed,” he said.
The President also called on members of the security sector to uphold their mandate in safeguarding national sovereignty, particularly in the face of emerging threats, while aligning their operations with Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
He further implored the nation to honour the fallen heroes by promoting unity, peace and sustainable development, saying their sacrifices should inspire renewed commitment to building a modern and prosperous Zimbabwe.
Today’s burial was Zimbabwe’s fourth triple burial, with the previous three having been held on January 26, 2021; April 29, 2024; and January1 22, 2025.
The first was when Lieutenant General (Retired) Sibusiso Moyo, Cde Joel Biggie Matiza and Major General (Retired) Paradzai Zimondi were laid to rest.
The second was for the interment of Cde Nash Nyasha Dzimiri, Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha and Cde Tsitsi Grace Jadagu.
The most recent was for Major General (Retired) Solomon Siziba, Cde Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende and Ambassador John Shumba Mvundura.
Story by Jeremiah Gora
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