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Elita Chikwati Herald Reporter
HUNDREDS of people yesterday bade farewell to national hero Cde Eric Nyakudya Gwanzura, describing him as a selfless, hard working and loving man who had the nation at heart.
Cde Gwanzura died last week after collapsing at his Chegutu home.
He was 89.
Many people described the late nationalist who was also known as “Tsvimbo nyoro” as a hardworking man who worked for the development of the nation while others said he was a humble man who never bragged about his achievements.
Some people only realised how powerful Cde Gwanzura was after realising he played an important role in the construction of the famous Gwanzura Stadium in Highfield, Harare.
Cde Gwanzura also built schools which are benefiting many Zimbabweans today.
By 8:30am, people had started gathering at Stodart Hall in Mbare while others lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the funeral procession.
As usual, the two Mbare Chimurenga choirs churned out revolutionary songs with youths toyi-toying, waving flags and dancing in celebration of Cde Gwanzura’s life.
Dignitaries started arriving at the hall at 9am.
National Assembly Speaker Cde Jacob Mudenda; Minister of State for Liaising on Psychomotor Activities in Education Cde Josiah Hungwe; Minister of State for Presidential Affairs Cde Flora Buka; Minister of Health and Child Care Dr David Parirenyatwa were among the first dignitaries to arrive at Stodart Hall.
There was ululation as Cdes Amos Midzi, Noah Mangondo and Minister of State for Provincial Affairs for Harare, Cde Miriam Chikukwa arrived at the hall.
Cde Chikukwa briefly joined the Chimurenga Choir for some songs.
Vice President Joice Mujuru arrived at 10am followed by President Mugabe at around 10.15am.
After the body-viewing, which was led by President Mugabe, Cde Gwanzura’s body left for the National Heroes Acre where he was laid to rest.
Scores of people braved the scorching sun at the national shrine to bid farewell to Cde Gwanzura. Members of the apostolic sect, uniformed forces and others attended the burial.
Posters which described the nationalist were dotted among the mourners.
The posters read, “Cde Eric Nyakudya Gwanzura: Architect of township resistance”, “Man of Valour”, “Veteran Nationalist” and “We are free because of you”. Family spokesman, Mr Cleopas Gwanzura described Cde Gwanzura as a hardworking man who multi-tasked and had other people at heart.
Cde Gwanzura was a builder, trade unionist, teacher, and politician.
“He worked hard and ensured all members of the family got educated. He also courted wives for his brothers.
“Even though he was busy with his duties he had time for the family and there was never a time when the family suffered even during his imprisonment,” he said.
Cde Gwanzura was married to three wives, the late, Ms Jane Natsa, Evelyn Musimurimwa and Monica Makusha.
He is survived by two wives, Evelyn and Jane, 19 children and 65 grandchildren.
Online Reporter