Zimbabwe pays tribute to three heroes

Welcome to our live coverage of a solemn and historic occasion at the National Heroes Acre. Today, President Emmerson Mnangagwa will preside over the burial of three national heroes – Major-General (Retired) Herbert Chingono, Cde Cosmas Chiringa, and Cde Elison Mupamawonde. We gather to honour the three heroes’ unwavering commitment to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and their lifelong service to the nation.

Families, fellow patriots, Government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the public have joined to pay final respects to these distinguished sons of the soil. Over the next few hours, our Reporters Harmony Agere and Joseph Madzimure, we well as Photographers Believe Nyakudjara and Wilson Kakurira will bring you live updates from the Heroes Acre. Expect speeches reflecting on the sacrifices made for independence, military salutes and moments of silent tribute.

We will also share background on the lives and service of Major-General Chingono, Cde Chiringa, and Cde Mupamawonde so viewers can better appreciate the legacy each leaves behind. Stay with us for live coverage of this national act of remembrance and gratitude as Zimbabwe pays homage to three of its sons who gave so much for the country’s freedom and future. The first was when Lieutenant General (Retired) Sibusiso Moyo, Cde Joel Biggie Matiza and Major General (Retired) Paradzai Zimondi were laid to rest.

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The second was for the interment of Cde Nash Nyasha Dzimiri, Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha and Cde Tsitsi Grace Jadagu. The most recent was for Major General (Retired) Solomon Siziba, Cde Chenhamo Chakezha Chimutengwende and Ambassador John Shumba Mvundura. Major General (Retired) Chingono, a decorated veteran of the liberation struggle, died on March 15 at his Pentland Farm home in Mazowe from diabetes related complications.He was 68. Born in 1958 in Rukweza village, Makoni district, Manicaland, he was educated at Nyazura Adventist He crossed into Mozambique for military training and served in the Nyanga and Gandanzara operational areas.

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