Conference Facilities named after Tshinga Dube

Bethel Facilities and Conference Centre in Bulawayo has paid tribute to the late national hero, Colonel Tshinga Judge "Embassy" Dube, by naming one of its key conference rooms in his honour.

The recognition was announced on Friday during the official launch of Bethel's new Maliwayinkomo Bar. Operations Manager Tariro Mtamangira said the move celebrates Dube's rich legacy and cultural heritage as part of Bethel's commitment to preserving history through its infrastructure.

"We pride ourselves in history. The inclusion of Tshinga, a conference room named after Maliwayinkomo's grandson, the late Tshinga Dube, proves that," Mtamangira said.

She explained that Maliwayinkomo Dube, an early Swazi warrior and prominent figure in the liberation struggle, led key military regiments, laying the foundation for future generations such as Colonel Dube.

The late Colonel Dube, who passed away in 2024, was a decorated war veteran, prominent Zipra commander, and former Cabinet Minister. He played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe's liberation and post-independence development, earning national hero status for his service.

Bethel's naming of its facilities after historical figures reflects its broader mission to embed cultural and historical narratives into the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. Other spaces at the centre include Matsheni and Ncube's Boardroom, while the restaurant is named Ngungunyana - all drawn from the lineage of Maliwayinkomo Dube.

The centre's efforts in heritage preservation and innovation were recently recognised at the 2024 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, where Bethel Facilities was named 1st Runner-Up in the Best MICE Stand category.

Mtamangira said the centre remains committed to fostering a deeper appreciation of Zimbabwe's cultural roots while promoting tourism and business events in the Matabeleland region.