Online Reporter
Columbus Mabika-Herald Reporter
MAJOR-GENERAL (Retired) Richard Ruwodo was one of the most prominent senior officers in the Zimbabwe National Army who, at independence in 1980, became the army’s first black director of Zimbabwe Army Records, a post he held with distinction, Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Emmanuel Matatu has said.
He died aged 72 on Monday.
Yesterday, a funeral parade was held in honour of Maj-Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo, whose nom de guerre was “Moshe Pwititi”, at Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare, where people from all walks of life converged to witness his last military respects.
He was described as someone who personified all that was best for the ZNA in the administration of salaries for thousands of troops in service.
General Matatu, who was the chief mourner, described the senior officer as a soldier of note who protected and propelled national interests.
“The late officer was a loyal and patriotic commander of note who jealously promoted, propelled and protected the country’s core interest until his demise,” he said.
“We stand united in remembrance of a man who gave his life in service of his nation, whose courage, humility and devotion to duty will forever echo in our hearts.
“He was not one who sought glory, nor did he wear his honours as a crown; instead, he carried with quiet dignity knowing that true valour lies not in recognition but in sacrifice.”
Maj-Gen Ruwodo was born on March 14, 1954 in Mutare District, Chief Mutasa, under Headman Munhama, Samushonga Village in Manicaland Province. He received his primary education at Mutasa Primary School in Mutare District and went on to Highfield Secondary in Harare, where he completed Form 1 to 4 from 1969 to 1972.
Upon completion of secondary education, he was employed at BATA Shoe Company in 1973 as a salesman. He was later promoted to relief manager, serving in that capacity until 1975.
The young Richard answered the call to duty, leaving the comforts of home to join the liberation struggle in 1975 as a dedicated ZANLA cadre.
He was among the third group of cadres to receive military training in Mozambique.
His group was trained at Chimoio and included the likes of Colonel (Rtd) Shaw Matemachani, the late Thomas Bvuma and several others.
Maj-Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo is survived by his wife, Lois Ruwodo, and three children.
Mourners are gathered at Number 92, Folyjon Crescent, Glen Lorne, Harare.
Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
