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Remember Deketeke
Herald Correspondent
LIBERATION war heroine, Cde Beatrice Zengwe, was laid to rest on Wednesday at the Harare Provincial Heroes Acre, with mourners paying tribute to her unwavering commitment to Zimbabwe’s freedom and post-independence development.
The burial, attended by Government officials, war veterans and family members, was marked by emotional praises honouring Cde Zengwe’s sacrifices during the liberation struggle and her service to the nation.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Ritired Colonel Samuel Muvhuti, an uncle to the deceased, said the heroine embodied all the qualities wanted in a leader.
“She embodied the three values that validate a woman: Being the family’s priest, guardian, and above all the source of income,” he said.
“We have lost a pillar of support, love, and guidance as a family.”
In a speech read on behalf of Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Senator Charles Tawengwa, the director of Coordination in his office, Retired Major Catherine Kampila described Cde Zengwe as a fearless fighter whose contributions were instrumental in Zimbabwe’s independence.
“We have lost a true heroine, a comrade who stood firm in the face of danger during the liberation struggle. Her bravery and dedication to the cause of freedom will forever be remembered,” said Sen Tawengwa.
Born on July 9, 1958 in Chivhu, Muvhuti Village under Chief Mutekedza, Cde Zengwe joined the liberation struggle at the age of 18 in 1976.
She played a critical role as a Chimbwido, providing intelligence, food and logistical support to freedom fighters in restricted areas.
Cde Zengwe is survived by three children: Ndanatsei Zengwe, MacDonald Zengwe, and Panganai Chemhere Zengwe.
The Minister recounted a fierce battle at ‘Gandamafungo’ in Chivhu, where Cde Zengwe and her comrades fought valiantly against colonial forces.
“Two comrades and three mujibhas fell in that battle, but the enemy was decisively defeated. Such was the courage of Cde Zengwe and her generation,” he said.
Sen Tawengwa urged the family to remain united and uphold their mother’s legacy.
“To the children, be there for each other. Shun drugs and emulate your mother’s bravery. Her spirit will forever guide you,” he said.
After independence, Cde Zengwe remained an active member of ZANU PF, serving as the Political Commissar for Highfield Parirenyatwa District.
She was later appointed Secretary for Health and Child Care in the Mujibhas and Chimbwido Harare Province from 2004 to 2014, and subsequently as a National Executive member of the association until her passing.
Beyond politics, Cde Zengwe was a dedicated Harare City Council employee from 1996 until her retirement a few years ago.
Online Reporter