Story by Peter Chivhima
ZIMBABWE is mourning the death of decorated military officer and liberation war veteran Air Commodore (Retired) Simon Bere, who died on Friday in Zambia. He was 66.
In a statement, the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) said it had received news of his passing with deep grief and sorrow.
AFZ Public Relations Officer, Wing Commander Donovan Muroyiwa, said the entire Air Force family was mourning the loss of one of its distinguished former commanders.
Born in 1959 in Hurungwe, Mashonaland West Province, Air Commodore Bere began his education at Chiroti and Matau primary schools before proceeding to Ascot in Gweru.
Motivated by the injustices of colonial rule, he joined Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle in 1979, receiving military training in Mozambique at the historic Tongogara Assembly Point.
Following his training, he served in the education department in Mozambique, where he played a key role in supporting and mentoring fellow liberation fighters.
His dedication and leadership saw him rise to the positions of detachment commander and Political Commissar during the liberation struggle.
After independence, he was attested into the Air Force of Zimbabwe in 1981 as an Aircraftman, the entry rank in the Non-Commissioned Officers’ Corps.
Over a distinguished military career spanning more than four decades, he rose through the ranks to become Air Commodore, serving in various senior roles within both the AFZ and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
He retired from active service in 2024 but continued to serve the nation in other capacities.
Mourners are gathered at Plot 6, Ansdale Farm in Karoi.
Air Commodore Bere is survived by his wife, Reginah and three children, Chengetai, Takudzwa and Tendai.
Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
