Mnangagwa pays tribute to late Brigadier General

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has described the late Brigadier General (Rtd) Mpandasekwa Mzheri as a revered and decorated patriot who dedicated his life to the service of Zimbabwe.

Speaking during the burial of the late army general, recently declared a national hero, Mnangagwa hailed Mzheri's lifelong commitment to the liberation struggle and the nation's military. Mzheri passed away in Harare on October 6, 2025, at the age of 75.

"We gather here to lay to rest Brigadier General Mzheri, who was a veteran of the liberation struggle and a revered, decorated military commander," Mnangagwa told mourners, which included government officials, service chiefs, and diplomats.

Known by his war name "Cde Khetani Khanye," Mzheri joined the liberation war in 1974 and received military training in Zambia, Tanzania, and the former Soviet Union. He rose to become deputy commander of Freedom Camp and served as a military adviser during the Lancaster House Peace Talks in 1979.

Following independence, Mzheri was among the first ex-combatants integrated into the Zimbabwe National Army, where he commanded the 1st and 3rd Infantry Brigades, served as the first commandant of Inkomo Garrison, and participated in military campaigns in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

After retiring from the army in 1999, Mzheri joined the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe's Financial Intelligence Unit, continuing his service to the nation in a civilian capacity.

Mnangagwa urged Zimbabweans to draw inspiration from the general's life, citing his courage, bravery, focus, and discipline on the battlefield.

The late hero was honoured with several prestigious awards, including the Liberation Medal, Independence Medal, and the Grand Officer of the Zimbabwe Order of Merit, recognising his exceptional contributions to the nation.