Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke-Herald Correspondent
THE body of Major General (Retired) Evaristo Dzihwema has arrived back home from India, marking the return of the former senior military officer who died last week while receiving medical treatment.
He was 63.
Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs Minister Monica Mavhunga, together with other senior Government and army officials, received the body at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport around 5pm.
She described Maj-Gen Dzihwema as a dependable mentor and patriot who played a pivotal role in orienting her into her current ministerial responsibilities.
Minister Mavhunga was speaking at a service held in Maj Gen Dzihwema’s honour at Charles Gumbo Barracks.
“He was always available to provide guidance, institutional memory and professional advice. His passing is a huge loss not only to the ministry but to the nation as a whole,” she said.
At the time of Maj Gen Dzihwema’s death, he was serving as Chief Director responsible for War Veterans Affairs in the Ministry of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs.
Minister Mavhunga urged Zimbabweans to preserve the country’s liberation history.
“Let us write our own narratives. We must document our history and tell our own story as Zimbabweans because people like Major General Dzihwema dedicated their lives to the liberation and development of this country,” she said.
Maj Gen Dzihwema also expressed gratitude to the Government for facilitating the officer’s medical treatment.
“Everything possible was done in an effort to save his life, and for that we remain grateful,” she said.
Maj Gen Dzihwema’s younger brother, Shadreck, described his brother as the family’s pillar of strength.
“I saw him as a father figure, a source of knowledge and wisdom. He believed strongly in education and constantly encouraged us to pursue learning and to work hard in everything we did,” he said.
“He always put the family first and inspired everyone around him to strive for excellence. His absence will be deeply felt.”
Maj Gen Dzihwema’s son, Tapfumaneyi, said the family was devastated by the loss.
“It is a big loss to us as a family, and we cannot replace him,” he said.
“I had the chance to accompany him to India for treatment, and everything medically that was supposed to be done was done.
“However, the Lord took him from us. We will be poorer without him.”
Burial arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
