Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
THE Macheke community and Mashonaland East Province have paid their final respects to National Hero Major General (Rtd) Richard Ruwodo at his farm in Macheke, Murehwa, honouring his patriotism and service before and after Independence.
Community members and provincial leaders described the late National Hero as a humble and generous leader who supported local development, farmers and vulnerable families.
“I started working for Cde Richard Ruwodo in 2002. He assisted me a lot for the 24 years I have been working for him. He assisted a lot of people in this community and was a loving individual,” a community member said.
“Whenever the local school faced challenges, he would assist. We are saddened by his death. He was a good leader who supported the local community to embark on irrigation activities,” another community member said.
Residents also recalled his support for farmers and community projects.
“Cde Richard Ruwodo was an open-minded person. He was assisting a lot of farmers here and we thank the President for declaring him a National Hero for his works before and after Independence,” one resident said.
“His tractors assisted locals with tillage services. He also supported communities during times of bereavement, and we thank the President for declaring him a National Hero,” another resident said.
The Ruwodo family thanked Government for conferring National Hero status on the late liberation war veteran.
Family member Mr Owen Ruwodo said:
“Our father died on July 7 after spending three weeks in hospital. He was 72 years old. He was decisive and a loving father who sacrificed for the attainment of Independence. We want to thank the Government for supporting us during this difficult time.”
ZANU PF Mashonaland East Provincial Chairperson Cde Daniel Garwe described Major General (Rtd) Ruwodo as a committed patriot whose legacy should inspire future generations.
“Major General (Rtd) Richard Ruwodo was among the architects of our liberation history who continued serving the nation after Independence. Young people should emulate his patriotism and commitment while shunning drug and substance abuse,” he said.
Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, said the province had lost an outstanding leader.
“We thank President Mnangagwa for declaring one of our own a National Hero. He dedicated his life to the liberation struggle and continued serving Zimbabwe as a senior army officer and community leader. He promoted peace, unity and development, values that we should all emulate,” he said.
Major General (Rtd) Richard Ruwodo will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of service to his family, community and the nation.
