Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
THE family of National Hero Brigadier General (Rtd) Donald Silundi Tshuma has described him as a selfless and principled patriot whose dedication to family and country will remain an enduring legacy.
Family members paid glowing tribute to the liberation war veteran as the nation prepares to lay him to rest at the National Heroes Acre on a date yet to be announced.
To those closest to him, Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma was a humble and compassionate man whose life was defined by honesty, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to others.
His daughter, Farai Tshuma, described him as a loving father who always prioritised his family.
“My dad loved his family. He was just an honest man. Whenever we were with him, we felt his love and dedication to us,” she said.
The late national hero’s cousin, Sithabile Ndlovu, said Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma consistently placed the needs of others before his own.
“He is a man who would put others above himself. Even when there were funerals at family level, he always looked for me and we would drive together to assist others,” she said.
His brother, Alfred Mzizi, said the late liberation war veteran demonstrated extraordinary patriotism and commitment to national service.
“I learnt from him what it means to love your family and your country. Above all things, he was a very honest man who worked hard every day for his country. I never witnessed such a great sacrifice in any other person,” he said.
Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma served during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle before being attested into the Zimbabwe National Army at independence, where he rose through the ranks to attain the rank of Brigadier General.
He died on May 15 at his home in Nkulumane, Bulawayo.
The late national hero is survived by four children.
