Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha

The people of Chivi this Wednesday bade farewell to their kinsman, the late Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha whom they described as a pillar of strength.

They thanked President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his administration for honouring Brigadier General Vezha.

“Today is a sad day for us as a family. Brigadier General Vezha was born in this area and he grew up among us. He was a family leader who helped many of his kinsmen,” said a Chivi resident.

Another said, “We want to thank President Mnangagwa and his administration for honouring our son who was committed not only to serve his family but the whole country.”

Masvingo Provincial leadership including war veterans paid tribute to Brigadier General Vezha for being a patriotic soldier who worked for his country before and after independence.

“Today as a province we are celebrating the life of a patriotic soldier, born in Chivi and served his country with excellence before and after independence,” said Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honorable Ezra Chadzamira.

After a send-off ceremony in Chivi, the body of the late National Hero was flown back to Harare, where it will lie in state before burial at the National Heroes Acre on Monday next week.