His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa hands over The National Flag to the wife of the Late National Hero Brigadier General (Rtd) Romeo Daniel Mutsvunguma, Mrs Miriam (nee Uragu) Mutsvunguma at HeroesAcre.
By George Swarei
Harare, July 1, 2024 – President Emmerson Mnangagwa led the nation in mourning Brigadier General (Rtd) Romeo Daniel Mutsvunguma, a revered national hero, at the National Heroes Acre today. The esteemed military officer, who passed away on June 19 in Rusape at the age of 67, was remembered for his unwavering dedication and service to Zimbabwe.
In his address, President Mnangagwa praised Brigadier General Mutsvunguma for his commitment and selfless service. “He was a consistent, persistent, committed, and dedicated cadre who selflessly served our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe,” said Mnangagwa. “This earned him the recognition and honour to lay here at our sacred National Heroes Acre, besides the Founding Fathers, luminaries, his comrades, and heroes of our nation.”
Born on March 6, 1957, in Makoni District, Manicaland Province, Mutsvunguma, known by his Chimurenga name ‘Comrade Mapfumo Moyo,’ left school to join the liberation struggle in 1975. He played a significant role during the liberation struggle, including overseeing the integration of ZANLA and ZIPRA forces and contributing to the political education of cadres.
Mutsvunguma’s distinguished military career continued post-independence, with notable achievements and roles within the Zimbabwe Defence Forces. His exemplary conduct earned him numerous accolades, including the Liberation Medal and the Commander of the Zimbabwe Order of Merit Award.
President Mnangagwa urged the nation, particularly the youth, to draw inspiration from Mutsvunguma’s patriotism and dedication. “Let us remain ourselves. We are Zimbabweans and we are Africans. We must be proud of who we are, and in the dignity of our identity,” he emphasized.
As Zimbabwe prepares to host the SADC Summit next month, Mnangagwa reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to regional development and resistance to foreign interference. “We reject hegemonic tendencies and intrusive foreign maneuvers by some Western countries bent on sabotaging the rights of the people of Africa to true independence and sovereignty,” he stated.
The burial ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials, family members, and citizens, marked a solemn tribute to a man whose life and work were dedicated to Zimbabwe’s liberation and development. As Brigadier General Mutsvunguma was laid to rest, President Mnangagwa concluded with a heartfelt farewell: “Rest in Eternal Peace our Hero. We will continue to defend our sovereignty and advance the prosperity of our motherland, Zimbabwe.”
