Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
A sombre atmosphere gripped Bulawayo on Monday as mourners gathered to bid farewell to national hero Brigadier General (Rtd) Donald Silundi Tshuma, who died on May 15 following a long illness.
Hundreds of people converged at the Amphitheatre in Bulawayo to pay their last respects to the liberation war icon ahead of his burial at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on Wednesday.
Family members, relatives, government officials, war veterans and members of the public attended the send-off ceremony, describing the late national hero as a disciplined, humble and selfless leader who dedicated his life to the liberation and development of Zimbabwe.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Stanley Ndlovu said Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma was not only a respected military commander, but also the pillar that held the family together.
“To the nation, he was a soldier and a dependable commander, but to us he was our source of strength. He carried himself with humility and always kept the family united,” he said.
His daughter, Ms Farai Tshuma, remembered him as a quiet but deeply caring father whose actions spoke louder than words.
“He was not a man of many words. He expressed his love through his presence and quiet support. We understood his care and commitment through the way he carried himself,” she said.
Government officials and liberation war veterans hailed the late national hero for his contribution during the armed struggle and his dedicated service in the Zimbabwe National Army after independence.
Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo, said Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma served the country with discipline and integrity throughout his military career.
“He served with distinction during the liberation struggle and maintained the same dedication and professionalism in the national army after independence,” he said.
Bubi legislator Honourable Simelisizwe Sibanda said cadres such as Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma embodied sacrifice and commitment to national freedom.
“Heroes like Tshuma remind us that the country’s independence was attained through sacrifice, courage and unwavering resolve,” he noted.
ZANU PF Politburo member Senator Molly Mpofu urged Zimbabweans to safeguard the values and ideals that liberation war heroes fought for, describing the late national hero as a true patriot and servant of the people.
ZANU PF Bulawayo Provincial Vice Chairperson Cde Victor Nkomo described Brigadier General (Rtd) Tshuma as a humble and soft-spoken leader who inspired many during and after the liberation struggle.
Retired Brigadier General Masoka Mabhena said the late national hero played a pivotal role in encouraging young people to join the armed struggle.
“He opened my eyes to the importance of joining the liberation struggle and serving the country,” he said.
The body of the late national hero is expected to be flown to Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare on Tuesday, where it will lie in state ahead of burial at the National Heroes Acre on Wednesday.
