3 'national heroes' to be buried at Heroes acre

Zimbabwe will on Monday lay to rest three national heroes - Major-General (Retired) Dr Herbert Chingono, Cosmas Chiringa and war veteran Elison Mupamawonde - at the National Heroes Acre in recognition of their roles in the liberation struggle and contributions to national development after independence.

This marks the fourth occasion since 1980 that the country will conduct a triple burial at the revered shrine, underscoring the significance of the three men's service to the nation.

Preparations for the burial are already underway, with a military funeral parade held in honour of Maj-Gen (Retd) Chingono at Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare.

Maj-Gen Chingono, whose chimurenga name was "Swift Chakanyuka," died on Sunday after a short illness at his farm in Mazowe. He was 68.

Speaking at the funeral parade, Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Emmanuel Matatu paid tribute to Chingono, describing him as a disciplined and dedicated officer who helped shape the Zimbabwe Defence Forces in its formative years.

"He left a legacy of excellence in the organisation," Gen Matatu said, noting his contributions to training and doctrine development at institutions such as the Zimbabwe Staff College and the Zimbabwe National Defence University.

Former ZDF Commander General (Retd) Philip Valerio Sibanda also described him as a professional soldier and a reliable leader who served with distinction.

Meanwhile, Cosmas Chiringa, who served as Permanent Secretary for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution, was buried following his death last Monday due to heart failure at the age of 67.

Thousands of mourners, including ruling party supporters, gathered to pay their respects as he was honoured for his role in both the liberation struggle and post-independence governance.

ZANU–PF Secretary for Education, Research and Ideology and Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs, Charles Tawengwa, said Chiringa exemplified patriotism, discipline and commitment to national development.

"He was a son of the soil who, from the tender age of 16, started and travelled his liberation journey to his final days as the Permanent Secretary," Tawengwa said.

Chiringa is credited with contributing to policy coordination, strengthening service delivery and advancing the government's devolution agenda. He also played a role in community relocation programmes and development initiatives in several provinces.

ZANU–PF Deputy Secretary for Security Tendai Chirau described him as a leader who promoted collaboration between government, communities and faith-based organisations, while also contributing to national development programmes.

The late Elison Mupamawonde, a war veteran, is also set to be interred at the shrine in recognition of his contribution to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle.

The triple burial highlights the country's continued tradition of honouring individuals who have made significant sacrifices for Zimbabwe's independence and development, with Monday's ceremony expected to draw senior government officials, military leaders and members of the public.