Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
Youth leaders in Matabeleland South say the values of patriotism, courage, unity, humility and selfless service shown by the late Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo continue to guide how they lead today.
Dr Nkomo, remembered as Father Zimbabwe and Umdala Wethu, died on 1 July 1999 at the age of 82 after battling prostate cancer. This year the country marked 27 years since his passing. More than two decades later, his life remains a reference point in Zimbabwe’s liberation story and nation-building.
Zanu-PF Matabeleland South Youth League deputy secretary for finance, Cde Aldonia Gondo, said Father Zimbabwe is remembered not only for politics but for his example in everyday life.
“Father Zimbabwe faced exile, detention and betrayal, yet he did not respond with bitterness. He chose humility and gentleness,” he said.
“As young leaders we learn what integrity and service really mean. He put the nation first, not personal gain. Even in power he remained simple and accessible. He listened to ordinary people,” said Cde Gondo.
He said Dr Nkomo understood that liberation was a long journey.
“He negotiated, compromised when needed, and kept his eyes on a free and united Zimbabwe. He respected elders, women, youth and even opponents. He believed dialogue was better than division. As young people, we will uphold peace and unity,” he said.
Cde Gondo said young leaders must act as bridges in communities and preach peace. He said patriotism is key to development and young people can show it by volunteering, creating jobs, protecting culture and solving local problems.
“Young people have a responsibility to build on the foundation laid by Father Zimbabwe and other heroes. We must contribute positively towards Vision 2030,” he said.
Zanu-PF Matabeleland South Youth League chairperson, Cde Moses Langa, said Dr Nkomo’s life teaches the importance of unity in building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
“As a young leader I have learnt the importance of unity from Father Zimbabwe. As leaders we must take the lead in uniting our people, reject divisions, work hard and play our part in building a prosperous nation for future generations,” he said.
“I take pride in the legacy of Father Zimbabwe, a son of our province whose contribution to liberation and nation-building inspires us. His life reminds us that patriotism, courage, humility, unity and selfless service are the foundations of true leadership.”
Cde Langa said Dr Nkomo championed national unity, peace and reconciliation, values that still guide the country today.
He added that the Government has kept that vision alive and young people must ensure it is passed on.
“We also salute His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa for programmes that empower youth. Through skills development, innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture and education, the President has shown that young people are not spectators but drivers of the country’s future,” he said.
Cde Langa urged young people to follow Father Zimbabwe’s example by taking part in national development, embracing innovation, respecting history and protecting the independence won through the liberation struggle.
Known as Chibwechitedza, Mafukufuku, Umdala Wethu and Father Zimbabwe, Dr Nkomo was more than a liberation icon. He was a unifier and a visionary.
Even when placed under house arrest in Kezi in 1962, he remained a source of hope. People travelled from across the country to seek his counsel.
His greatest political achievement was the 1987 Unity Accord between Zanu and Zapu. The agreement ended post-independence conflict and laid the foundation for peace. That decision showed his belief that the nation’s future was bigger than party or personal ambition.
It is understood that for Matabeleland South youth leaders, that same spirit is what they want to carry forward, leadership that puts people first, that unites rather than divides, and that serves with humility.
