Mphoko remembered for honouring Landa Nkomo

The late former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko has been fondly remembered as one of the earliest individuals to honor the legacy of his predecessor, the late John Landa Nkomo. Mphoko, who passed away last week at the age of 84 while receiving treatment in India, is praised for his efforts in supporting the John Landa Nkomo Trust, a key initiative established to preserve Nkomo's remarkable contributions to Zimbabwe.

Mphoko's death was met with national mourning, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared him a national hero. While he will be honored with a national hero's status, Mphoko is set to be buried in Bulawayo, a city central to his roots.

Mphoko served as Vice-President of both Zanu-PF and the country, having been appointed to the position in December 2014 after the passing of John Landa Nkomo the previous year. As a key figure in Zimbabwean politics, Mphoko demonstrated his commitment to preserving Nkomo's legacy in various impactful ways, particularly through charitable donations to a trust named in honor of the liberation hero.

One of Mphoko's significant contributions was a donation of a floating trophy for the Tsholotsho Inter Schools competition, which is held annually under the banner of the John Landa Nkomo Sports Tournament. This gesture exemplified his dedication to continuing Nkomo's work in advancing education and sports development in the country.

Jabulani Nkomo, the chairperson of the John Landa Nkomo Trust and son of the late Vice-President's predecessor, recalled how Mphoko maintained a close and personal relationship with his father, even during his final days. "When my father was in hospital, Mphoko made efforts to visit him from his base in Botswana, and if he could not be there, he would regularly call to check on how the old man was doing," Jabulani shared. "He was passionate about ensuring the continuity of my father's legacy, a reflection of the deep bond they shared."

Senator Angeline Masuku, a senior struggle stalwart, highlighted the enduring relationship between Mphoko and Nkomo, dating back to their days in the liberation struggle and continuing after independence. "Mphoko, much like Nkomo, was driven by a vision to improve the well-being of the people, both economically and in terms of health. His compassion and dedication were evident in his work and support for Nkomo's legacy," Masuku said.

Public Nkomo, a liberation war detainee and younger brother of John Landa Nkomo, added that Mphoko was integral to the establishment of Zipa (Zimbabwe People's Army), working alongside Nkomo in the fight for Zimbabwe's independence. "Mphoko was instrumental in supporting the legacy of John Landa Nkomo and his contributions to the nation will always be remembered," he said.

Born on June 11, 1940, in Gwizane, Bubi district, Matabeleland North province, Phelekezela Mphoko was part of an important generation of leaders in Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. Selected by Zapu leader Joshua Nkomo for military training, Mphoko was among the first seven commanders tasked with recruiting, training, and leading the revolutionary army during the liberation war.

Mphoko's diplomatic career included significant postings as Zimbabwe's ambassador to Russia, Botswana, and South Africa, further cementing his legacy as a dedicated public servant. His commitment to Zimbabwe's progress, both during and after the liberation struggle, has left an indelible mark on the nation's history.

The John Landa Nkomo Trust, alongside various political and social leaders, continues to honor the memory of Mphoko, a man who not only shaped the nation's political landscape but also played a vital role in nurturing the values of unity and legacy preservation.