The nation is in mourning following the death of Colonel (Retired) Tshinga Dube, a prominent member of the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) and a distinguished political figure. Dube passed away at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo after a protracted battle with kidney failure, at the age of 83. Tributes have begun pouring in from various sectors, with many calling for him to be honored as a National Hero. Mourners are currently gathering at his residence in Killarney, Bulawayo.
Born on July 3, 1941, in Fort Usher, Matabeleland South, Dube was a key player in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle against colonial rule. He joined the fight in the 1960s and received guerrilla training in the Soviet Union and China in 1972. Known by his nom de guerre, Cde Embassy, Dube played a significant role in coordinating operations between ZIPRA and the African National Congress (ANC) in Matabeleland North and South.
Dube’s involvement in the liberation struggle included participation in the notable Madliwa battle, a fierce five-day conflict near Kariba. Following Zimbabwe’s independence, he served in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) for a decade, before taking on roles such as Deputy Secretary of Research and Development at the Defence Headquarters and later the CEO of Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI) for 23 years. In his political career, he represented Makokoba as a legislator and was appointed Minister of War Veterans in 2015.
In a heartfelt message of condolence, President Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed profound sorrow over Dube’s passing. He described Dube as a “nationalist stalwart and veteran freedom fighter,” recognizing his lifelong dedication to the liberation cause and his significant contributions to nation-building after independence. The President reflected on Dube’s leadership qualities and his role in the integration of former combatants into a cohesive national army.
“We will forever miss him,” President Mnangagwa stated, extending condolences to Dube’s family, particularly to Mama Dube and their children. He emphasized that Dube’s legacy will be cherished across generations, marking him as a heroic figure in Zimbabwe’s history.
President Mnangagwa declared the liberation stalwart a national hero which is a befitting send off given his contribution to the nation before and after independence.
“In recognition of his outstanding role in struggles for the Independence of Zimbabwe and that of several nations in our sub-region, and for the sterling work he diligently executed in the service of his people both before and after Independence, the ruling ZANU PF Politburo has seen it fit and proper to declare Cde Tshinga Dube a national hero so he is properly honoured and remembered, and so he is appropriately rested alongside his luminary peers.
This is the least our nation, which is forever grateful, can do to express its admiration of, and to show and express its gratitude to him,” he said.
As Zimbabwe mourns the loss of this gallant leader, his contributions to the nation and the struggle for freedom remain indelibly etched in the hearts of many. Dube’s life serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for independence and the enduring spirit of resilience among the people of Zimbabwe.
