Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo
Herald Reporter
The late former Vice President, Dr Simon Vengai Muzenda, was a towering figure whose dedication to Zimbabwe’s liberation and post-independence development continues to inspire the nation’s ongoing developmental drive, President Mnangagwa has said.
Today marks exactly 22 years since Dr Muzenda’s death on September 20, 2003.
In his commemorative message, President Mnangagwa said the former Vice President’s contributions before, during and after independence remain permanently etched in Zimbabwe’s history.
“Today, September 20, 2025, we remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Dr Simon Vengai Muzenda, affectionately known as ‘Mzee’ and dubbed the ‘Soul of the Nation’.
“His unwavering dedication to Zimbabwe’s liberation and development is an inspiration to us all.
“As a champion of culture and values, he embodied and rekindled the spirit of our great nation, even as we struggled for our hard-won independence,” said the President.
President Mnangagwa said the anniversary was not only a day of remembrance but also a celebration of Cde Muzenda’s humility, moral courage and lifelong commitment to the well-being of Zimbabweans.
During the liberation struggle, Cde Muzenda was a key member of ZANU’s Central Committee, where he played a pivotal role in coordinating activities with Mozambique and mobilising support for the cause.
His political journey began earlier, as he assumed several leadership positions in the nationalist movement.
“He joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1957, whose risky pursuits he actively executed,” said the President.
“The late Vice President was instrumental in the formation of the National Democratic Party (NDP) in 1960 and became the Chairman of the Mvuma branch.
“His other leadership roles included being Secretary-General of the British African National Voice Association (The Voice) in 1953, working alongside its leader, Benjamin Burombo; as Provincial Organising Secretary of NDP (Victoria Province) in 1961; as Provincial Administrative Secretary of ZAPU in 1962; and as Deputy Organising Secretary of ZANU in 1964.”
Dr Muzenda endured multiple spells of detention and imprisonment yet remained resolute in his commitment to the liberation of Zimbabwe, added the President.
“He was the link between militants and the mobilisation of incendiary material for sabotage missions, which he surreptitiously got from mining centres,” he said.
After independence in 1980, Cde Muzenda continued to serve with distinction, holding senior positions including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister, and ultimately Vice President.
“His leadership and vision continue to guide us,” said President Mnangagwa.
“As we commemorate his passing, we reflect on his significant contributions to our country’s history and to the making of our nation.
“Cde Muzenda’s attributes — his humility, strong work ethic and commitment to our culture and values — inspire us to strive for excellence.”
President Mnangagwa added that as Zimbabwe works towards achieving Vision 2030 of becoming an upper-middle-income economy, the nation draws motivation from Cde Muzenda’s legacy.
The Second Republic, he said, was guided by his example to build a prosperous, equitable and united Zimbabwe.
