Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza
Herald Reporter
Government officials, war veterans, widows and children of war veterans and the Mazorodze family today converge in Harare to commemorate the life of the late national hero Dr Simon Mazorodze.
Dr Mazorodze died on November 6, 1981, aged 47 and was interred at the National Heroes Acre.
At the time of his death, Dr Mazorodze, who was a medical doctor, was the Minister of Health.
The commemorations also saw the launch of a book penned by his wife, Cde Alice Mazorodze, titled “Icho Charira!”.
Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs Minister Monica Mavhunga, who was represented by the Commissioner of Heroes’ Dependants Assistance in her Ministry, Ms Gladys Moyo, described Dr Mazorodze as a brave son of Zimbabwe who played a pivotal role in the country’s liberation struggle.
“As a dedicated doctor, he served our nation with compassion, courage, and an unwavering sense of duty,” said Minister Mavhunga.
Minister Mavhunga said the launch of the book was a fitting way to preserve Cde Mazorodze’s memory.
“Amai Mazorodze’s steadfast dedication to preserving his memory stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, courage, and patriotism,” said Minister Mavhunga.
Minister Mavhunga, in her remarks, highlighted the legal and institutional framework underpinning the recognition of heroes.
“The National Heroes Act (Chapter 10:16) came into effect on February 1, 1985,” Minister Mavhunga said.
“It was promulgated to provide for the designation of National Heroes and the rendering of State assistance to dependants of such heroes.”
She noted that the ministry had made significant strides in supporting heroes’ dependants, including educational and medical assistance.
“Our department remains committed to upholding the principles of the National Heroes Act and NDS1, striving to create a more inclusive and prosperous nation,” she said.
Commissioner Moyo upon launching the book said it should not be kept only in the library, but made available for children to read and gain wisdom.
“This wisdom is vital for defending our beloved country, Zimbabwe. I urge everyone to buy the book, and as the Ministry, we will do our best to promote it,” she said
Liberation Heroes Dependency Association Secretary General, Mr Euvencia Matete, said the book was more than a personal memoir.
“The book Icho Charira! Stands as a testament to Amai Mazorodze’s love, dedication, and meticulous preservation of her husband’s legacy for posterity,” he said.
Mr Matete said the sacrifices of the liberation struggle must guide the nation’s future, adding that President Mnangagwa’s call to “leave no one and no place behind” reflects the association’s mission.
“Today, we acknowledge the value of those sacrifices and reaffirm our commitment to our nation’s future,” he said.
“His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s mantra of ‘leaving no one and no place behind’ resonates deeply with our association’s mission,” he said.
Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province, Senator Charles Tawengwa, who was represented by his director Cde Ignatius Mungure, said the book was a heartfelt homage to the countless sacrifices made by heroes like him during our liberation struggle.
“Icho Charira! is more than just a book it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a narrative infused with love and perseverance, and a vital record that ensures Simon’s sacrifices are never forgotten,” he said.
