Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
The family of the late Major General (Retired) Evaristo Dzihwema has described him as a humble, compassionate and selfless leader whose legacy of service, integrity and patriotism will continue to inspire generations to come.
Speaking during the late national hero’s funeral this morning, his sister, Mrs Prisca Chipfuriro thanked President Mnangagwa for according her brother the country’s highest honour.
“On behalf of the Dzihwema family, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the President for affording our late father and brother the highest honour in the land through the conferment of national hero status,” she said.
Mrs Chipfuriro said the late Major General devoted his life to serving both his family and the nation with distinction.
“Today, we are not only saying goodbye to a father. We are bidding farewell to a loving husband, a caring son, a devoted father, a respected leader and a friend to so many. He was a man of gentleness, kindness and compassion.”
She said the late liberation war veteran believed strongly in education and encouraged his children to pursue higher learning.
“He believed education was the one true equaliser, and that conviction shaped how he raised his own family. His commitment inspired all his children to complete their studies and attain Master’s Degrees,” she said.
Mrs Chipfuriro also recalled his commitment to community development, saying he mobilised villagers to repair roads and supported vulnerable people without expecting anything in return.
“He had an amazing gift of bringing people together. Whenever there was discouragement, he offered hope. Above all, he was generous, professional, courageous, full of integrity and was a natural leader. He treated everyone with dignity regardless of their status,” she said.
Describing the void left by his passing, she said: “To us, he was more than a father. He was our protector, teacher, counsellor, encourager and role model. Whenever we needed advice, he was there. Whenever we stumbled, he lifted us up. Whenever we succeeded, he celebrated with genuine joy.”
She urged the family to preserve the values he stood for.
“The legacy that he leaves behind must be carried on. It is now our duty to uphold his vision and continue serving our family, our community and our nation,” she said.
