Story by Peter Chivhima
HUNDREDS of mourners gathered at National Heroes Acre this Friday to bid farewell to national hero Jonathan Hungwe, as government officials, military colleagues and family members paid tribute to his distinguished service in the Zimbabwe National Army and his role in the country’s liberation struggle.
Brigadier General (Retired) Hungwe, who died on February 26, was honoured for a military career marked by dedication, discipline and service to the nation.
“I worked for quite some time with Brigadier General Retired Hungwe in the Zimbabwe National Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps. He was a Commander who used to relate with everyone despite of the rank. So we have lost a good man,” Director Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps, Colonel Naison Tavarera said.
Deputy Minister of Defence, Levi Mayihlome, described the late national hero as a dependable and disciplined officer.
“I worked closely with him, and I can say he was an officer who was dependable. He executed his duties with dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the service of his country. Throughout his career, he demonstrated remarkable discipline and a strong sense of responsibility, qualities that earned him the respect of both his superiors and subordinates. His leadership style inspired confidence and unity among those who served alongside him,” he said.
Leaders from Masvingo Province also paid tribute, describing Brigadier General (Retired) Hungwe as a committed community leader who supported national development initiatives.
“Brigadier General (Retired) Hungwe, whom we are laying to rest here, is from Chivi in Masvingo, in which I am a Member of Parliament. He was such a man who was approachable. We used to work with him closely in national development programmes,” Chivi South legislator, Honourable Felix Maburutse said.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, said the late national hero’s service to the country would remain an enduring inspiration.
“He was a pillar of strength and a symbol of commitment to national duty. Throughout his life, he placed the interests of the nation above personal gain, demonstrating the true meaning of patriotism and selfless service. His contributions to the development and security of the country will continue to inspire many, particularly the younger generation who looked up to him as a role model. His memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of the people of Masvingo Province and the nation at large,” he said.
Family members said his passing had left a deep void.
“My Brother was a pillar of our family, and his death has left a void which will be difficult to fill. We want to thank His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa for bestowing a National Hero Status on Brigadier General Retired Hungwe,” family representative, Mrs Ledwina Hungwe said.
Born in 1958, Brigadier General (Retired) Hungwe joined the liberation struggle in 1978 in Mozambique before being attested into the Zimbabwe National Army as a Warrant Officer Class Two in 1981.
Through dedication and service, he rose through the ranks to Brigadier General before retiring.
The decorated soldier was laid to rest at National Heroes Acre and is survived by his wife, Susan, seven children and seven grandchildren.
