Chidzonga laid to rest

yesterday to pay their last respects to former Mhondoro legislator, Dr Mavis Chidzonga.
Dr Chidzonga who died on Sunday night at her Borrowdale home after being diagnosed of malaria was declared a liberation war heroine.
Addressing the mourners, Zanu-PF secretary for legal affairs, Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa said Dr Chidzonga was a selfless and dedicated cadre who served Zanu-PF and the nation with passion. He said Dr Chidzonga deserved the liberation heroine status conferred on her as she contributed significantly to the war of liberation.

“Mrs Chidzonga was in England during the time of the liberation struggle. She joined committees that were supporting the war of liberation from outside the country.
“She is also a founder member of the Women’s League, which was launched in Mozambique during the liberation war,” said Cde Mnangagwa who is also Defence Minister.
He said after the country attained independence in 1980, Dr Chidzonga remained loyal to the party and worked tirelessly towards the development and growth of the country and Zanu-PF.

“Mrs Chidzonga worked in the then Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing after 1980 before becoming Member of Parliament for Mhondoro constituency in Mashonaland West between 1995 and 2000. Her contribution towards parliamentary reforms was vital,” he said.

Cde Mnangagwa said Zanu-PF as a party had lost an active and important member who would be difficult to replace.
Cde Mnangagwa laid wreaths on the tomb on behalf of the Head of State and Government and the Commander-In-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, President Mugabe.
Speakers paid glowing tributes to Dr Chidzonga in their eulogies.

Senator for Chivi-Mwenezi and former Governor for Masvingo Cde Josaya Hungwe said it was important for Zimbabweans to remain loyal and patriotic so as to safeguard the country’s sovereignty.
Chief Njelele said Dr Chidzonga’s death was a great loss to the entire Gokwe district.
He described Dr Chidzonga as a hardworking and generous woman.

“We used to meet in so many areas when she was in Mhondoro. She was a kind person whose ideas were constructive and motivating,” he said.
The burial was also attended by Midlands Governor, Cde Jason Machaya, Minister of State in Vice President Joice Mujuru’s Office, Sylvester Nguni, Politburo member, Cde Tsitsi Muzenda as well as the president of Mavambo-Kusile, Dr Simba Makoni, MPs and senior Government officials.