Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
The Chronicle of July 1, 1999, began as what appeared to be an ordinary news day.
The lead story in that morning’s edition reported the tragic drowning of three relatives at a dam in Sovelele, West Nicholson, in Matabeleland South. Another prominent story detailed demonstrations by Polytechnic students, who smashed windows at The Chronicle offices, injuring then trainee journalist Nqobile Bhebhe (now Zimpapers Business Hub Senior Reporter) in the process.
It seemed destined to be just another day in the newsroom.
But by mid-morning, history took an unexpected turn.
The late former President, Cde Robert Mugabe, addressed the nation through the national broadcaster, ZTV, delivering news that sent shockwaves across Zimbabwe, the region and the wider African continent.
Vice-President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo- Father Zimbabwe- had died after succumbing to prostate cancer at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare. He was 82.
The announcement plunged the nation into mourning.
In response, The Chronicle rushed out a special afternoon edition carrying the bold front-page headline: NKOMO DIES.
The special edition also captured reactions from Bulawayo residents, many of whom struggled to come to terms with the passing of one of Zimbabwe’s foremost liberation icons and founding fathers.
Dr Nkomo was subsequently declared a national hero and was laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on July 5, 1999, in a ceremony attended by thousands of mourners, including regional leaders and liberation stalwarts from across Southern Africa.
More than a quarter of a century later, his legacy continues to endure.
On December 22, 2013, a towering statue of Father Zimbabwe was unveiled in the heart of Bulawayo along the former Main Street, which had since been renamed Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Street, standing as a lasting tribute to one of the principal architects of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and a champion of unity, peace and reconciliation.
