Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Zimpapers Reporter
The Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project Trust has received a major boost after philanthropist and renowned businessman Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei donated US$250,000 towards the preservation and promotion of the late Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo’s legacy.
Dr Tagwirei made the donation during the Trust’s fundraising gala dinner and project launch held on Monday in Harare, an event dedicated to celebrating the ideals of unity, peace and national pride through sport and cultural engagement.
Confirming the donation, the Trust’s founding trustee and special projects director, Mr Kwanele Hlabangana, said the contribution would go a long way in strengthening programmes aimed at promoting values espoused by the late nationalist leader.
“The major highlight of the evening was a gracious and timely donation of US$250 000 from Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei of Sakunda Holdings towards the Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project Trust,” said Mr Hlabangana.
“As the Trust, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr Tagwirei for his remarkable generosity and unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of Dr Joshua Nkomo.”
Mr Hlabangana said the donation would enable the Trust to take significant strides in advancing peace, unity and wellness initiatives, which were central to Dr Nkomo’s philosophy and leadership.
“This donation is a testament to the impact that one individual can have in shaping the future of our nation. We are overwhelmed by Dr Tagwirei’s kindness and vision,” he said.
Mr Hlabangana said the gala dinner also marked the official launch of several transformative legacy projects, including the Joshua Nkomo Peace Marathon scheduled for April 26, 2026, and the Joshua Nkomo High Performance, Fitness and Wellness Centre.
The event coincided with Unity Day commemorations, a deliberate choice that underscored Dr Nkomo’s pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s journey towards national reconciliation, peace and cohesion.
Dignitaries from the Government, corporate world and academia attended the event, including representatives from the Office of the President and Cabinet and the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (Zimche).
Dr Nkomo, affectionately known as Father Zimbabwe, was one of the country’s founding fathers and a towering figure in the liberation struggle. His death on July 1, 1999, sent shockwaves across Zimbabwe and beyond, with world leaders hailing him as a selfless freedom fighter whose vision was anchored on unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
A political colossus guided by the philosophy of Ubuntu, Dr Nkomo believed peace was the cornerstone of nation-building. The Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project Trust was established to honour his life and ideals through initiatives that foster unity, reconciliation, youth development, sport, culture and national pride.
derick.khumalo