Online ReporterHerald Reporter
ON a serene Saturday, September 6, 2025, the community gathered at Sharaude Business Centre in Gutu to pay tribute to Henry Wesley Makura, an education veteran whose impact was felt far beyond the confines of the classroom.
He was buried on July 18.
The air was thick with emotion as mourners arrived, united by shared memories and a collective sense of loss.
The highlight of the day was a poignant Roman Catholic Church service, where the priest, Reverend Tatenda Kokayi delivered a moving sermon interwoven with a touch of humour.
He reminded the audience, “Chinouraya munhu inguva yaMwari”, adding that true comfort comes not from people, but God.
His words resonated deeply, particularly as he noted the tendency for individuals to attend church without truly following the teachings of the Lord. “Chakakosha kuva neukama naMwari,” he declared, urging everyone to cultivate their spiritual relationships.
As the service progressed, the priest tackled the cultural stigma surrounding death.
“Vazhinji havarovhi parufu,” he observed, pointing out how fear often prevents people from mourning openly, with whispers of blame lingering in the air.
His call for unity and forgiveness was powerful. “Chakakosha kubatana nevamwe. Vanhu ngavadzidze kubva pa imbwa,” he said, likening the importance of community to the loyalty of a dog.
Among the notable alumni from Makawire School, are Dr Ben Chigara, an esteemed academic, and Crispin Zvomukati Hove, who generously donated a ram for the mourners.
Each person present related stories of how the late Makura couple had touched their lives, not just as educators, but as pillars of the Mwenezi community.
The Makura family expressed their heartfelt gratitude in a communiqué, thanking MESA headed by London-based Dr Elvis Pundo, and the 10-member delegation from Makawire School for their support during the death of their father and at his memorial service
The gathering included key figures such as Madam Esther Maponde, the head of Rufaro Secondary School and Mr Jerryson Chikwava, the head of Makawire Primary School and eight other alumni.
Each delegate shared heartfelt anecdotes, reminding everyone of the good old days and the profound legacy left behind by Henry and Agnes Makura.
As the day drew to a close, the atmosphere was full of nostalgia and a renewed sense of unity.
“Viva the unity between the Makura family and the Makawire community, viva!” echoed through the crowd, a testament to the enduring legacy of a man who had devoted his life to education, politics and community service.
The echoes of their gratitude and love would linger long after the last farewell was spoken, marking a day that would be remembered for years to come.
Makura is credited for transforming Makawire Primary School in Mwenezi District between 1960 and 2001, from a modest pole and dagga structure alongside his late wife, Agnes, to a destination of choice for many learners in the area.
Commonly known as “Chamakweza”, the late Makura initially taught at Magadzire School in Gutu before being posted by the Catholic Church to Makawire School where he was to remain for 42 years till retirement.
Most speakers described him as “an impactful community leader and champion”.
