Online Reporter
Richard Muponde-Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE Fallen Heroes Trust of Zimbabwe (FHTZ) has cleared the final hurdle in the long-awaited exhumation and reburial of Zipra freedom fighters buried in Sanyati, Mashonaland West, after the Zimbabwe National Army’s bomb disposal unit declared the area safe of any explosives.
In an interview in Sanyati, the Trust chairman, Dr Arthur Makanda, confirmed that the engineering unit had completed a safety sweep of a former Rhodesian Army camp, where an estimated 15 liberation war fighters were buried.
The exhumations are now scheduled for June 23 to 29.
“We engaged the army’s Bomb Disposal Unit to ensure that the site, previously used by the Rhodesian forces, had no hidden explosives which could have been left to deter future reburials. We are satisfied with their findings and are now ready to begin the exhumation process,” said Dr Makanda.
The initiative follows similar reburial efforts in Hurungwe, where mass graves of Zipra cadres were discovered in areas previously used as operational zones during the liberation war. In both Hurungwe and Sanyati, the Trust has been working closely with local communities and traditional leaders to recover and honour the remains of fighters who died during Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence.
Dr Makanda emphasised the importance of identifying each individual before reburial.
“We want to establish the identity, home area, and final burial preference of each comrade. Whether they are reburied at Grand Parade in Hurungwe, which is set aside for such burials or returned to their home area, the choice will be respected,” Dr Makanda said.
He also extended gratitude to the local Sanyati community and Chief Wozhele for their support, adding that their cooperation has been instrumental in preserving the memory of the fallen heroes.
“This is not just about burial. It’s about recording and passing down stories, how they died, who they left behind so that future generations understand the sacrifices made for our independence”.
Dr Makanda reaffirmed the Trust’s inclusive operations in the reburial of freedom fighters.
“Whether ZIPRA or ZANLA, all who fought for Zimbabwe deserve a dignified reburial,” he said.
The Trust continues to rely on volunteer efforts and historical testimonies to restore dignity to fallen cadres buried in shallow and forgotten graves.
