Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa has described the late National Hero, Major General (Retired) Everisto Dzihwema, as a disciplined and fearless liberation fighter whose courage and distinguished service left an enduring legacy.
The President also assured Zimbabweans returning from the diaspora that Government has put measures in place to facilitate their safe and dignified reintegration into society.
President Mnangagwa, accompanied by the First Lady, presided over the burial of Major General (Retired) Dzihwema at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on Monday.
Paying tribute, the President said the late national hero served the country with distinction both during the liberation struggle and in the Zimbabwe National Army.
“The late National Hero will be remembered as a disciplined and fearless cadre, who displayed the highest levels of bravery during operations… The late General Officer, Major General (Rtd) Dzihwema… rose through the ranks to General Officer, serving with immense professionalism in Finance, Procurement, Human Resources and Quartermaster,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said Major General (Retired) Dzihwema’s exemplary service was recognised through several national honours.
“In recognition of his illustrious service to the nation, the late General Officer was awarded the following medals: The Liberation Medal, Independence Medal, Ten Years’ Service Medal, Long and Exemplary Service Medal, Mozambique Campaign Medal, Democratic Republic of Congo Campaign Medal and Commander of the Zimbabwe Order of Merit Award,” he said.
Addressing the state of the economy, the President said reforms under the Second Republic continue to deliver tangible benefits for citizens.
“Since the advent of the Second Republic, our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe, continues to record tangible gains that impact the day-to-day lives of our people… I appeal to all our people… to be good stewards over the resources, as well as the prosperity that we are witnessing in our country,” he said.
The President also called on communities, traditional leaders, churches and families to support Zimbabweans returning from the diaspora, while inviting the private sector to partner with Government in facilitating their repatriation.
“All our communities, including Traditional Leaders, Churches and Families, are challenged to play their part towards the successful re-integration arrangements… Our hands, therefore, are outstretched to receive all those coming back home. You are welcome… Welcome home,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said Major General (Retired) Dzihwema leaves behind a legacy defined by professionalism, loyalty and patriotism in service of the nation.
