Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure-Zimpapers Politics Hub
Thousands of people, including family and friends, gathered at the National Heroes Acre yesterday to bid farewell to one of the country’s illustrious sons, the late national hero Brigadier General (Retd) Jonathan Hungwe.
He was remembered as a patriotic and dedicated soldier, who made immense contributions to the nation before and after independence.
The atmosphere at the national shrine was a blend of reverence and celebration, embodying the deep respect for a man whose vision helped shape the development of the nation. Mourners began arriving at the break of dawn and, as the crowd swelled to fill every corner of the National Heroes Acre, it became a testament to the indelible impact he had made.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Masvingo, Ezra Chadzamira, said the late national hero was a renowned farmer who was passionate about achieving food security.
“I knew him as a well‑known farmer in Masvingo Province. He gave us ideas on how the province could achieve food self‑sufficiency. He was a hands‑on person who led from the front. We will greatly miss him,” said Minister Chadzamira.
Despite being a military man, Minister Chadzamira noted that the late national hero was a devoted Christian.
His close friend and workmate, Deputy Minister of Defence Brigadier General (Rtd) Levi Mayihlome, described the late national hero as a man of few words, possessing a highly calculative mind.
“Brigadier General (Rtd) Hungwe was deeply involved in church activities, never missing a service when he was present. He spoke passionately about the importance of God‑fearing individuals and the value of being upright. I never witnessed any indiscipline or failure on his part, whether in training or at work. He consistently proved to be dependable,” he said.
He emphasised that the nation had lost a reliable soldier with a big heart. “It is truly a tragic loss to see such dedicated and compassionate officers—who have greatly assisted communities and collaborated effectively with others—leaving us at this stage of our lives,” he said.
The Deputy Minister added that the late national hero played a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“He was one of the officers who ensured that the ZDF is what it is today,” he said.
The family of the late Brigadier General (Rtd) Hungwe described him as a principled and visionary leader whose legacy will remain permanently etched in the nation’s history.
Family representative Edina Hungwe reflected on his life and character, highlighting his humble beginnings and steadfast commitment to his values. She said Brigadier General (Rtd) Hungwe was born and raised in Masvingo Province in a family of 12 children, a background that shaped the discipline and resilience that later defined him.
Ms Hungwe emphasised that the late national hero was not only a dedicated leader but also a devoted family man who actively nurtured his children to embrace the values he embodied. She noted that he upheld high standards throughout his life, believing in hard work and integrity in every sphere.
“With him, there were no shortcuts in his military career, social life, faith, and every aspect of his life,” she said.
She also described her brother as an innovative thinker who consistently encouraged others to broaden their perspectives for the greater good.
“Jonathan had a gift for making people see things differently and think outside the box for the sake of progress,” she said.
She added that while the family mourns his passing, they remain grateful for the honour bestowed upon him by the nation.
