Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has described Dr Robbie Matongo Mupawose as a “hugely talented top public servant, an agricultural expert and an outstanding corporate leader” following his death on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
In a condolence message, the President said Zimbabwe had lost one of the pioneering experts who played a critical role in rebuilding the country’s agricultural sector in the post-independence era.
“The demise this last Sunday, 21 June 2026, of Dr Robbie Matongo Mupawose after being unwell for some time, has robbed our Nation of a hugely talented top public servant, an agricultural expert and an outstanding corporate leader,” said President Mnangagwa.
He said Dr Mupawose belonged to a generation of professionals who answered the national call at independence and returned home to assist in rebuilding key state institutions.
“A longtime Permanent Secretary in our Lands and Agricultural Ministries, Dr Mupawose belonged to a pioneering crop of experts we summoned back home at Independence to take up leadership positions in the nascent post-independence civil service,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said the late senior civil servant played a central role in efforts to rehabilitate and modernise Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector after the liberation struggle.
“Without hesitating, he packed his bags and headed home, where he helped repair and rehabilitate our Agricultural Sector, which had been broken by a long war,” he said.
The President said Dr Mupawose remained actively involved in shaping national agricultural policy and economic frameworks even after leaving Government service.
“He was part of the team which tackled and developed a blueprint for our land reforms and the resettlement programme, a dual assignment he remained seized with right up to his last days in Government,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also highlighted the late expert’s contribution through various boards and advisory roles in both the public and private sectors, including institutions such as the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), ARDA, AMA, the Biotechnology Council of Zimbabwe, as well as international organisations, including the World Bank.
“We have lost a fund of knowledge and expertise,” he said.
President Mnangagwa extended condolences to the bereaved family and described Dr Mupawose’s death as a national loss.
“On behalf of the Party, Zanu PF, Government, my family and on my behalf, I wish to express my deepest, heartfelt condolences to the Mupawose family, especially to Amai Mupawose and the children,” he said.
He also expressed sympathy to colleagues who worked with Dr Mupawose across various sectors, urging them to find solace in his legacy.
“In recognition of his immense contribution to national development and professional leadership, my Government has seen it fit to grant him a State-assisted funeral,” said the President.
President Mnangagwa prayed for the repose of the departed’s soul.
“May his dear soul enjoy eternal repose and peace.”
