Story by Memory Chamisa
A MEMORIAL service for National Hero Major General (Retired) Evaristo Dzihwema was held at St Martin’s Anglican Church in Hatfield, Harare, on Sunday, with family, friends, colleagues and congregants paying tribute to a decorated liberation war fighter and military officer remembered for his humility and dedicated national service.
Speakers reflected on the late national hero’s contribution during the liberation struggle and in post-independence Zimbabwe, describing him as a committed leader who inspired unity both within the military and his community.
Major General Tendai Elliot Stanley Dzirutwe, who served alongside the late Dzihwema, remembered him as a trusted friend and colleague.
“I have lost my best friend whom I shared a lot with in life. From the liberation struggle days to independence and serving in the army together, we motivated each other and ensured our families remained united at all times. I am happy to hear all the good things being said here; it shows the kind of man he was; humble, kind and wise,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Honourable Headman Moyo highlighted the late national hero’s contribution to improving the welfare of war veterans.
“Major General (Rtd) Dzihwema played a crucial role in the upliftment of war veterans in the Ministry as he ensured that policies for companies that were supposed to benefit them were properly set up,” he said.
Church members also paid tribute to his modest character.
“He was a hardworking man who never used his rank in the church. Many people were not aware that he was a Major General until his death was announced. That shows how humble he was,” said one congregant.
Family members described him as a unifying figure whose legacy would endure.
“We have lost a very good man, a peacemaker who ensured that the Dzihwema family was united. Even in his death, he has brought honour to our family and united us as we mourn him,” said a relative.
His children remembered him as a devoted father who encouraged them to pursue their ambitions.
“My father was our mentor and inspiration and supported me to advance my career as a sports personality,” said one of his children.
The body of the late National Hero will lie in state at his Zimre Park residence in Harare before burial at the National Heroes Acre on Monday.
