Story by Aifheli Mudau
THOUSANDS of mourners gathered at Malala in Beitbridge District to bid farewell to the late Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Deputy Officer Commanding for Matabeleland South Province, Assistant Commissioner Rever Mbedzi, who was laid to rest at his rural home following his death on March 18.
Assistant Commissioner Mbedzi, who served in the ZPCS for more than three decades, was remembered for his dedication to duty and his contribution to community development initiatives in the province and beyond.
Family members paid tribute to a man they described as devoted both to his profession and his community.
“We really thank the good job that was done by my father. As a family, we are really grateful for what the Government has done for our father,” said Miss Reunion Vhangani Mbedzi.
“As the uncle, I feel very devastated by the passing of Rever Mbedzi because he was the pillar not only for the family but for the whole district and the nation at large,” said Mr Abel Sirovha Mbedzi.
Local leadership and officials from Matabeleland South Province commended the late officer’s work, noting his role in advancing development efforts in Beitbridge and surrounding areas.
“We really thank the Government for honouring one of my subjects due to his good works as I have heard from different people who worked with him and from here in the village,” said traditional leader Chief Tshitaudze.
Political leaders highlighted that his recognition as a liberation hero was rooted in his commitment to duty.
“What made Mbedzi be declared a Liberation hero was his dedication to duty, especially when he was assigned to work here in Beitbridge,” ZANU PF Beitbridge DDC chairperson, Cde Samuel said.
ZPCS leadership also underscored his contribution to correctional rehabilitation programmes.
“We are really saddened as an organisation by his departure from this world because he was doing a lot of projects and teachings to the inmates, as he was spearheading the rehabilitation and reintegration programme,” said Deputy Commissioner-General for ZPCS, Manetswa Christine Manhivi.
Government officials further noted his involvement in youth empowerment initiatives and community upliftment.
“This is the man who worked very well with the ruling party ZANU PF, assisting especially youths with different projects, even to get formal employment,” said Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe.
Born on March 18, 1970, in Beitbridge, Assistant Commissioner Mbedzi joined the ZPCS in 1995 and rose through the ranks to become Deputy Officer Commanding for Matabeleland South Province.
He is survived by his wife, Blessing, and three children.
