Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure, [email protected]
NATIONAL heroes Major-General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo and Professor Herbert Mapfumo Chinyanga were yesterday remembered as patriotic nation builders, mentors and dedicated professionals whose contributions left an enduring mark on Zimbabwe.
Maj-Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo, whose Chimurenga name was Moshe Pwititi, died on July 7.
He was buried at the National Heroes Acre yesterday.
Prof Chinyanga died in South Africa on July 2 and will be cremated there in accordance with his wishes.
Speaking at the burial of Maj-Gen Ruwodo, President Mnangagwa paid tribute to the two national heroes, describing them as gallant sons of the soil whose lives were defined by service to the nation.
“On behalf of the people and Government, our revolutionary mass party Zanu-PF, and indeed on my own behalf, I express heartfelt condolences to the Ruwodo and Chinyanga families following the passing on of Maj-Gen (Rtd) Richard Ruwodo,” he said.
Reflecting on Maj-Gen Ruwodo’s military career, the President said he served the country with distinction and unwavering patriotism.
“Throughout his long career in the military and public service, he exemplified unflinching loyalty as a patriotic commander who fought in the armed liberation struggle,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President also paid tribute to Prof Chinyanga, whose contribution to medicine and healthcare transformed the field of anaesthesia in Zimbabwe.
“The life history of the late Professor Chinyanga is an epitaph of patriotism, integrity, humility, professional excellence and selfless service.
“He was a towering national and pioneering physician whose lifelong service helped to transform the specialisation of anaesthesia, advanced medical education and strengthened Zimbabwe’s healthcare system,” said President Mnangagwa.
For many who worked with Maj-Gen Ruwodo, memories of his leadership, mentorship and commitment to duty remain vivid.
Army Inspector-General, Brigadier-General Milton Vudzijena, described him as a patriotic, committed and hardworking soldier who helped shape the careers of many officers.
He recalled that Maj-Gen Ruwodo became the first black chief paymaster after Independence, taking over a position previously held by a British officer.
“Now when he took up the reins of the chief paymaster, he was responsible for the entire administration of the army,” said Brig-Gen Vudzijena.
“I am one of his products that he developed during his service.”
Former colleague, Colonel (Retired) Morgan Mudzinganyama, remembered him as a hardworking and honest leader who approached every responsibility with dedication.
“The Major-General was a very hardworking man; he was passionate about his work. He had the qualities of a good leader and very honest,” he said.
Col (Rtd) Mudzinganyama highlighted that being Brigadier-General then, he was the director of military records.
“From there on, he went to be the Director of Finance and other departments,” he said.
Beyond the military uniform, family members remembered a man whose wisdom, guidance and love touched many lives.
Family representative, Mr Trevor Gopo, expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa and Government for conferring national hero status on their relative.
“Today, on this solemn occasion, we, on behalf of the family, express our heartfelt gratitude for the profound honour bestowed upon our beloved relative through his interment at the National Heroes Acre.
“This highest recognition by the nation fills us with immense pride and deep appreciation,” he said.
Mr Gopo described Maj-Gen Ruwodo as a disciplinarian, devoted husband and a trusted source of wisdom within the family.
“He was a dispensary of wisdom to all of us,” he said.
He added that the late national hero’s influence extended far beyond his immediate family.
“Today, I speak of the life of a man who left an indelible mark on his family, his comrades and the nation he so faithfully served.
“We have gathered not only to bid him farewell but to celebrate a life of service, sacrifice, courage and unwavering commitment,” said Mr Gopo.
To colleagues and comrades, he was a dependable leader who always answered the call of duty.
“He was a General who never said ‘no’ when duty called. He was a wise negotiator who brought calm where there was conflict and unity where there was division.
“His leadership was defined by humility, integrity and an unshakable sense of responsibility,” said Mr Gopo.
As family, friends, former colleagues and the nation bade farewell, tributes continued to highlight the enduring legacies of both Maj-Gen Ruwodo and Prof Chinyanga; two distinguished Zimbabweans whose service, leadership and commitment to their professions helped shape the country they loved.
“He was a loving family man, a mentor, a guide and a source of strength whose values and example will continue to inspire generations to come.
“We honour a man who faithfully served both his nation and his family. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, his legacy of patriotism, selfless service and love will endure forever,” emphasised Mr Gopo.
