The Sunday Mail
Leroy Dzenga
Senior Reporter
Zimbabweans should honour the sacrifice of liberation war heroes through hard work and supporting development programmes championed by the Second Republic, President Mnangagwa has said.
He also encouraged Zimbabweans to establish businesses that outlive them and have the potential to continue benefiting surviving families, communities and the country.
He made these remarks at the memorial of the late Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander, Lt-General Edzai Chimonyo, in Harare yesterday.
“As we remember and honour this departed gallant luminary and son of the soil, I challenge the nation to continue working hard and consolidating the development milestones we are registering under the Second Republic,” he said.
“Let us all play our part. We are stronger together; in unity, peace and harmony, we are building our country. Development and prosperity is ours as a nation.”
The President said the late army commander had understood the concept of business longevity and this is why his banana farming venture in Burma Valley is still thriving almost a year after his death.
“I am aware that the late Lt-Gen Chimonyo was also an accomplished farmer who was renowned for producing high-grade bananas in the Burma Valley. It is most encouraging that the enterprise remains a flourishing venture, which is evidence of the solid foundation laid by our departed hero,” said President Mnangagwa.
He exhorted those venturing into business or any other enterprise to make sure they create structures that can survive even after founder’s demise.
“This must equally inspire our farmers and businesspeople alike to establish intergenerational entities that transcend our lifetimes. We must seek to leave behind our families, communities and indeed our country as a whole better off,” he said.
Lt-Gen Chimonyo, who died in July after a long battle with cancer, was described as a selfless patriot who was uncompromising in his love for Zimbabwe.At one time, he put his health on the line for the greater good during the liberation struggle.
“During the Gonarezhou Battle, the late national hero was injured and hospitalised. Due to his strong willpower and sheer determination to play his part in the liberation of the country, the late Cde Edzai Mabhunu discharged himself from hospital before full recovery to return to the warfront,” said President Mnangagwa.
The former ZNA commander, he said, was a man who unwaveringly stood for justice, equality and fairness. He called on those in the security sector to emulate his virtues.
“I call upon all officers, men and women in the military as well as members of the broader security architecture to always stand firm in defending our national sovereignty, territorial integrity as well as our socio-economic and political national interests as defined by our unique realities.”
Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga, who was a political commissar during the war, said Lt-Gen Chimonyo was an ideologically astute soldier who never strayed from values of the liberation struggle.
“As we reflect on the life of Lt-Gen Chimonyo, we continue to cherish the enormous sacrifice he exhibited. He will be remembered for his immense contribution to the liberation struggle, standing firm for justice and defending Zimbabwe’s interest both domestically and in the international domain,” said VP Chiwenga.
Defence and War Veterans Affairs Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri said some of the freedoms Zimbabweans now enjoy came as a result of sacrifices from men like the late commander.
Other senior Government officials who spoke said Lt-Gen Chimonyo’s life should be an example to young Zimbabweans.
