Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
LIBERATION war hero, Cde Phillip Makuto, who passed away on July 27, was laid to rest at his homestead in Zoma, Gutu, with speakers at the funeral describing him as a patriotic cadre whose legacy continues to inspire.
The burial on Thursday drew hundreds of mourners, including government officials, veterans of the liberation struggle, ZANU PF members, and villagers, all gathered to honour the life and service of the late war veteran.
“We are gathered here to pay our last respects to an outstanding war veteran who was declared a liberation war hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Such an accolade is not merely a tribute to his exceptional exploits but also an acknowledgement of the collective sacrifices borne by countless individuals who fought for the liberation of Zimbabwe.
“In his memory, let us honour the indelible legacy of Cde Matare, a stalwart of the liberation movement, whose contributions should inspire future generations to understand the weight of their heritage and the sacrifices made for their freedom,” Minister of State for National Security, Honourable Lovemore Matuke said.
Cde Makuto, who was the leader of veterans of the liberation struggle in Gutu district, left a legacy of fearless service and selfless sacrifice.
“As Gutu West, we have lost an influential leader who was our Advisor in all the development programmes we undertake here. He was an elder to us, full of wisdom and above all an outstanding farmer,” Gutu West Legislator, Honourable John Paradza noted.
“As a party, we are saddened by Cde Makuto’s passing on as he was a loyal and patriotic member of ZANU PF from the liberation struggle up until his death,” ZANU PF Masvingo Provincial Chairman, Senator Robson Mavhenyengwa expressed.
“Cde Makuto is a true example of being loyal to his country. From the bushes to serve as a police officer and from there to serve the revolutionary party until the time of his death,” War Veterans Leader Masvingo Province, Cde Gibson Mashingaidze added.
The Makuto family lost a father figure.
“As a family, we are saddened by the death of our father, who was the family’s torch bearer. Though he was ill for quite some time, we want to thank the government for according him a liberation hero status, and we can testify that our father loved his country,” Family Representative, Matare Makuto said.
Cde Makuto joined the Liberation struggle in 1977 under ZANLA, received training in Mozambique, and was deployed to Manica province.
After Independence, he joined the Zimbabwe Republic Police and served at various stations before retiring in 2006.
He held various posts in the ZANU PF party, and at the time of his death, he was the Chairperson of the War Veterans Association in Gutu district.
He is survived by two wives, six children, and grandchildren.
