Story by John Nhandara
TRIBUTES continue to pour in following the death of Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Mozambique and Eswatini, Ambassador Victor Matemadanda, with political leaders, government officials and liberation war veterans remembering him as a dedicated nationalist who served the country with distinction.
Ambassador Matemadanda, a liberation war veteran, former legislator and diplomat, died at a local hospital in Harare after a short illness.
Among those paying tribute was ZANU PF Secretary for Information and Publicity, Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa, who described the late ambassador as a trusted colleague and committed cadre whose contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and political development would endure.
“It was a shock for me to hear that Ambassador Matematanda has passed on and I would like to extend my deep condolences to the family, to his children, to his wife and to the Matematanda family that they have lost such a relative who managed to make such a mark on the political scene of Zimbabwe. I also extend my condolences to President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa.”
Ambassador Mutsvangwa also paid tribute to the late diplomat’s role during the liberation struggle and his efforts to preserve Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage.
“He was a courageous, bold man who, when the republic was in danger, came to the rescue and I pay homage to him for that kind of courage.”
He noted that Ambassador Matemadanda remained committed to preserving the memory of key liberation war sites, including Chimoio, Tembwe and Nyadzonya, for future generations.
In a message posted on X, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr Nick Mangwana, described Ambassador Matemadanda as a committed public servant who served Zimbabwe with distinction in both government and diplomatic assignments.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.
