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Addressing Integrated Skills Outreach Programme (ISOP) graduates at Mushagashe Business Development Centre in Masvingo on Thursday, Dr Mbizvo could not hide his emotional attachment to the late academic, historian and Masvingo North MP, Dr Mudenge and said he would greatly miss his boss.
Dr Mudenge (71) collapsed and died on 4 October in his room at Great Zimbabwe Hotel here where he was scheduled to address academics from Southern African universities.
He was declared a national hero and buried at the National Heroes Acre.
The graduation marked the completion of a three months course, which saw 30 youths getting certificates in poultry, piggery and management.
Among the graduates were 12 females.
“I was not supposed to be here today as your guest of honour but my Minister Dr Mudenge is the one who was scheduled to officiate at this occasion. I remember the last time I was with him; we were in Bulawayo, just before his passing on. He was talking about this occasion expressing his passion on seeing the youths from his area improving their lives through ISOP,” said Mbizvo.
Dr Mbizvo, who was wearing a T-shirt with the late Minister’s picture, was still visibly shaken by the death of one of Masvingo’s senior politicians and he said he would continue to cherish the good working relations they enjoyed.
“I had a close relationship with my minister as he was a professional man. He used to tell me that even if I am a practical man because my area of study is practical work, there was need to refer to history. I would listen attentively and admire the man’s wisdom. He was a historian of repute, remember. I liked every piece of advice that he gave me.
“We laughed, joked and shared even our personal experiences in social life with the minister that I had become accustomed to his approach of work and life. I will miss him. So rest in peace, my boss,” he said while struggling to hold back tears.
Online Reporter