Liberation veteran Comrade Nengi Vincent Shoko laid to rest

AS Zimbabwe gears to mark the 46th Independence Day on April 18, a day that symbolises the sacrifices of liberation war heroes and heroines, the recent death of Cde Nengi Vincent Shoko has brought into sharp focus the enduring legacy of those who fought for the country’s freedom.

Cde Shoko, a veteran of the liberation struggle, died on April 4, 2026, at his homestead in Makwa Communal Land, Hwange District. He was 74.

Hundreds of mourners gathered in Simangani Ward to bid farewell to the former freedom fighter, who was accorded district liberation war hero status in recognition of his contribution to the armed struggle.

Born on December 23, 1951, Cde Shoko joined the liberation war in 1974 under ZAPU and underwent military training at Morogoro in Tanzania, where he rose to the rank of Section Commander. Using the pseudonym Philip Dube, he later received further training abroad before returning to the operational front.

Between 1975 and 1979, he participated in several operations across Hwange, Gokwe, Lupane and Nkayi districts as part of a five-member unit until the ceasefire.

Following the ceasefire, Cde Shoko assembled at Gwayi River Mine before being integrated into the Zimbabwe National Army. He was deployed to the 3.2 Infantry Battalion in Rusape and later took part in demining operations in 1983 before his demobilisation.

After independence, he remained active in national development, serving as Zanu-PF Kasasa District Secretary for Information and Publicity, a position he held until his death.

He was a vetted war veteran and was earmarked to benefit from the housing scheme that Government had unveiled for the ex-combatants.

Speaking during his recent funeral, War Veterans League representative Cde Alexander Mugoli Dube described the late cadre as a dedicated freedom fighter who served the nation with distinction.

“We have lost a committed cadre who contributed immensely to the liberation of this country.

“His passing leaves a void, especially at a time he was set to benefit from Government programmes for war veterans,” he said.

Cde Shoko’s nephew, Mr Simeon Nyathi, said the family had lost a pillar of strength.

“He was a strong fighter and the last surviving member among his siblings. This is a huge loss to our family,” he said.

Cde Shoko, who never married and had no children, was cared for by his nephew in his later years.

In recognition of his service to the nation, the Zimbabwe National Army presided over his burial, accorded him full military honours, including a five-gun salute.

His life and sacrifice stand as a testament to the courage of Zimbabwe’s liberation fighters, whose efforts continue to define the meaning of Independence.