Story by Panashe Nagol
THE late Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo has been remembered as a dedicated soldier and public servant who devoted his life to serving Zimbabwe during a funeral parade held in his honour at Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare this Thursday.
Major General (Retired) Ruwodo died on July 7 at a local hospital following a short illness.
After retiring from the Zimbabwe National Army in August 2008, he served as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence and War Veterans Affairs before later becoming Chief Director and Director for War Veterans’ Affairs.
He also played a key role in advocating for the welfare of liberation war veterans, frequently appearing before Parliament in support of improved economic opportunities for former freedom fighters.
Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Emmanuel Matatu, who was the Chief Mourner, described Major General (Retired) Ruwodo as a patriotic leader who dedicated his life to protecting Zimbabwe’s interests.
“He was a man who jealously protected the core interests and dedicated his entire life to public service. He also worked tirelessly to advocate for better living conditions for liberation war veterans and economic opportunities for them,” he said.
Family members remembered him as a loving but disciplined father who valued family above all else.
“My sisters and I always referred to him as a disciplinarian, as he was a very strict man, but he was a loving father who loved his family. He was very big on family,” his son, Mr Tatenda Ruwodo, said.
His nephew, Mr Owen Ruwodo, said:
“He truly loved life; that man lived, and that’s what we are grateful for because we have so many moments with him. He was truly the best; there is truly no man better than him on earth.”
Major General (Retired) Ruwodo is survived by his wife, Mrs Lois Ruwodo, and three children.
Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
