Story by Peter Chivhima
NATIONAL hero Cde Luke Mushore has been described as a true patriot and liberation icon whose contribution to national development will forever be cherished.
“Zororai Murugare Moyo Chirandu, a stalwart of the Liberation Struggle and staunch believer in majority empowerment through Land Reform,” were some of the heartfelt messages boldly inscribed on banners as thousands of people gathered at the National Heroes Acre this Monday to pay their final respects to Cde Mushore who died on June 13.
Cde Mushore was honoured with a dignified send-off, as mourners including government officials, liberation war veterans, and family members reflected on his immense contributions both during and after the liberation struggle.
“As a province, we are mourning the death of Cde Mushore, but at the same time, we are honoured that His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, together with the Politburo, has accorded him national hero status. We are grateful. He was a father figure,” said the Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Honorable Zhemu Soda.
“We worked closely with Cde Dick Joboringo, as he was affectionately known in the province. Cde Dick was always there for us whenever we needed his support. His death is a great loss to the entire province,” noted the Minister of State for Mashonaland Central Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Christopher Magomo.
To his family, Cde Mushore was more than a hero as explained by family representative, Miss Natalie Mushore.
“Cde Dick Joboringo was more than a liberation icon to us, he was the cornerstone of our family. To his children, he was a guiding light, teaching us the values of integrity, hard work and love for our country. To his siblings he was a protector always to lead with courage,” she said.
Cde Mushore joined the liberation struggle in 1972.
The late national hero was among the vanguard cadres who endured hardship, coordinated operations, and rallied communities during Zimbabwe’s fight for independence.
After independence, Cde Mushore remained active in national service, taking on leadership roles aimed at uplifting the economy and empowering communities.
Cde Mushore is survived by his wife Chipo, several children, and 61 grandchil
