Story by Providence Maraneli
The Nhwali community of Matabeleland South has described the late national hero, Major General (Rtd) Solomon Siziba as an epitome of patriotism and a man of the people.
As the hearse carrying the body of the national hero approached his homestead, there was silence as the community was failing to come to terms with the passing on of one of their own.
The body was ushered into the homestead accompanied by praise poetry as per local tradition, asking the family ancestors to welcome their son, the national hero home.
Family aunt, Gogo Sarah Siziba spoke, “You have arrived at your home, the home of your fore-fathers, you will rest in peace, you have played your part. You have fought a good fight.”
Various speakers spoke glowingly on the late national hero.
“As a community we looked up to him, he was kind and humble despite his position. Most of the people have birth certificates because of him,” a member of the community said.
Another stated, “As we grew up, he was just too good. He went to Manama High because he was just good.”
The Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Hon Omphile Marupi said, “He was a cut above the rest. He was a fine man, a dedicated soldier. His contribution to the liberation of this country was is unquantifiable.”
Matebeleland South Minister of state for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu described the late national hero as an epitome of patriotism.
“Major General Siziba was a shining example of courage, loyalty and dedication. Throughout his illustrious career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to the values of justice, equality and freedom. He was a true patriot who selflessly served our nation with honor and distinction.”
Meanwhile his body has left Nhwali for Bulawayo where it will lie in state at his Killarney home awaiting a military parade to be held at Mbizo Barracks.
