By Aldridge Dzvene
The President and Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has called for renewed patriotism, discipline and national unity as Zimbabwe laid to rest three National Heroes at the National Heroes Acre.
Addressing mourners during the burial of Cde Elison Mupamaonde, Cde Cosmas Chiringa and Major General Retired Dr Hebert Chingono, the President described the trio as gallant sons of the soil whose lives embodied sacrifice, loyalty and unwavering commitment to the nation across different phases of Zimbabwe’s history.
President Mnangagwa emphasized that the enduring legacy of the fallen heroes must inspire citizens and public officials alike to remain steadfast in defending national interests and advancing the country’s development agenda. He noted that their contributions, from the liberation struggle to post independence nation building, reflected a deep sense of duty, humility and selfless service.
Highlighting the life of Cde Mupamaonde, the President paid tribute to his strategic brilliance during the liberation struggle, describing him as part of the early vanguard generation that played a decisive role in weakening colonial forces. His technical expertise and leadership in key operations, the President said, were instrumental in advancing the fight for independence.
Turning to Cde Chiringa, President Mnangagwa underscored his dual legacy as a liberation war cadre and a dedicated public servant, whose nearly four decades in government service contributed significantly to rural development, land reform coordination and provincial administration. He described him as a bridge builder who translated national policy into practical development outcomes, aligning with the principle of leaving no one and no place behind.
The President further highlighted that Cde Chiringa’s life was a model for the civil service, urging public officials to embrace professionalism, accountability and accessibility. He stressed that leadership positions must be viewed not as privileges, but as mandates to serve citizens with integrity, discipline and commitment to national progress.
On Major General Retired Dr Hebert Chingono, President Mnangagwa described him as a distinguished military commander, academic and strategist whose service extended from the battlefield to national development. His contribution to military training, doctrine development and later involvement in agriculture and food security initiatives reflected a holistic approach to nation building.
The President called on members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the broader security sector to draw lessons from such exemplary service, particularly in an era defined by evolving security threats and technological change. He urged them to continuously sharpen their capabilities and align their work with Zimbabwe’s modernisation and industrialisation goals.
Beyond individual tributes, President Mnangagwa used the occasion to reinforce the importance of unity, peace and ideological clarity in safeguarding Zimbabwe’s sovereignty. He warned against complacency, urging citizens to remain vigilant and committed to protecting national policies and leadership from forces that may seek to undermine progress.
The President also acknowledged the global context, noting that ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have far reaching economic implications. He assured the nation that Government is implementing measures to shield the economy from external shocks, while continuing to pursue structural transformation through value addition and industrialisation.
In a broader development context, President Mnangagwa reiterated Government’s commitment to inclusive growth, devolution and decentralisation, emphasizing that tangible progress is being realised across provinces, districts and communities. He called on Zimbabweans to honour the legacy of the fallen heroes by actively contributing to national development and ensuring that the country’s resources are utilised for the benefit of all.
As the nation bid farewell to the three heroes, the President concluded by urging Zimbabweans to uphold the values of patriotism, unity and hard work, noting that sustainable development and prosperity can only be achieved through collective effort and unwavering dedication to the nation.
