Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
A military funeral parade was held for the late Brigadier General (Retired) Donald Silundi Tshuma at Imbizo Barracks in Bulawayo on Wednesday, as the nation paid tribute to a decorated senior military officer and liberation war veteran.
The sombre ceremony drew former colleagues, serving and retired military officers, family members and friends, who gathered to honour Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma for his contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and post-independence military service.
Former ZIPRA High Command member Brigadier General (Rtd) Abel Mazinyane described the late officer as a committed patriot who chose to join the liberation struggle at a critical moment in the country’s history.
“This is a real man. When others were being drawn to cities and Wenela, he chose to go and join the struggle. Men like him deserve all the honour and respect,” he said.
Major General (Rtd) Sibangumuzi Khumalo reflected on their long association during the liberation war and in the Zimbabwe National Army after independence.
“I met him at Nampundu. We were together at Mwembeshi for training. We also went together to Libya and then the Soviet Union. After the war, we worked together in the ZNA, though in different capacities,” he said.
Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi said Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma distinguished himself during military operations both locally and internationally.
“I saw him fight in Mozambique during the campaign where Zimbabwe participated, from Beira to Tete and Chikwalakwala. He also served in the Democratic Republic of Congo and received numerous accolades because he was a highly competent officer. He further worked in the Sudan peacekeeping mission. His history is one of hard work and commitment,” he said.
Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma joined the liberation struggle before independence and was later attested into the Zimbabwe National Army, where he rose through the ranks to become Brigadier General.
He died on May 15 at his home in Nkulumane, Bulawayo, and is survived by four children.
Burial arrangements are yet to be announced.
