Online Reporter
Hello Zimbabwe.
We are coming to you live from the National Heroes Acre in Harare, where mourners have gathered to honour Brigadier General (Retired) Jonathan Willie Hungwe as he is laid to rest.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa will preside over the burial service of a soldier, a leader, and a public servant whose life and work left a lasting mark on our country.
Brigadier General Hungwe dedicated himself to the defence and service of Zimbabwe.
He leaves behind his wife, Susan, and six children — a family now carrying the private weight of a very public loss.
As we witness this solemn farewell, we remember the national hero’s service, reflect on his contributions, and offer our deepest condolences to his loved ones.
Our Reporters Zvamaida Murwira and Harmony Agere, as well as Photographer Believe Nyakudjara will be providing live updates as the nation honours the memory of Brigadier General Jonathan Willie Hungwe.
Chilly skies and solemn hymns as Zimbabwe mourns
The atmosphere at the national shrine is hushed and heavy with reverence as State dignitaries and other mourners continue to trickle in for the burial.
However, the hush at the National Heroes Acre is occasionally lifted by voices – a choir sings a solemn hymn, their harmonies rising and falling like a slow tide. The singing draws together family and the rest of the nation in shared remembrance.
A biting chill cuts across the lawns, lending a sharpness to the air.
Overall, the mood is one of solemn national tribute – restrained, respectful, and deeply reflective, as the country pauses to honour Brigadier General (Rtd) Jonathan Willie Hungwe.
Service Chiefs arrive
Service Chiefs, led by Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Emmanuel Matatu, have arrived at the National Heroes Acre for the burial of national hero Brigadier General (Retired) Jonathan Willie Hungwe.
Upon arrival, General Matatu inspected the guard of honour mounted by members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
The Service Chiefs have since taken their seats at the high table as they await the arrival of the body of the national hero.
President Mnangagwa is expected to arrive shortly.
VP Mohadi arrives
Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi has arrived at the National Heroes Acre for the burial of national hero Brigadier General (Retired) Jonathan Willie Hungwe.
Upon arrival, Vice President Mohadi briefly inspected the guard of honour before proceeding to the VVIP tent.
He was saluted by Service Chiefs before exchanging greetings with Cabinet Ministers and other senior Government officials in attendance.
The atmosphere at the national shrine is gradually building up, with the venue now almost full as mourners continue to gather for the burial ceremony.
Brig Gen (Retd) Hungwe’s body arrives at National Heroes Acre
The body of national hero Brigadier General (Retired) Jonathan Willie Hungwe has arrived at the National Heroes Acre ahead of his burial.
The body was received by Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe, together with Service Chiefs.
It will briefly remain mounted on the military hearse as officials await the arrival of President Mnangagwa.
Proceedings are expected to begin once the President arrives, after which the funeral procession will commence.
President Mnangagwa arrives
President Mnangagwa has arrived at the National Heroes Acre for the burial of Brigadier General (Retd) Jonathan Willie Hungwe.
Upon arrival, President Mnangagwa joined the funeral procession.
He has since taken his seat in the VVIP tent, marking the beginning of the official programme.
Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Kazembe Kazembe is now on the podium directing the ceremony.
Hungwe family hails national hero’s enduring legacy
The family of Brigadier General (Retd) Jonathan Willie Hungwe has described him as a principled and visionary leader whose legacy will remain permanently etched in the country’s history.
Speaking during the burial ceremony, family representative Edina Hungwe reflected on the life and character of the late national hero, highlighting his humble beginnings and steadfast commitment to his values.
She said Brig-Gen (Retd) Hungwe was born and raised in Masvingo Province in a family of 12 children, a background that helped shape the discipline and resilience that later defined his life.
Ms Edina Hungwe said the late liberation war veteran and senior military officer was also a devoted family man who nurtured his children to emulate the values he lived by.
Brig-Gen (Retd) Hungwe is survived by his wife and seven children.
She said throughout his life he upheld high standards, noting that he believed in hard work and integrity in every sphere of life.
“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 constantly encouraged others to broaden their perspectives for the greater good.
“Jonathan had a gift to make 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 are grateful for the honour bestowed upon him by the nation.
“As we celebrate, we pay condolences to the President of Zimbabwe, Cde Mnangagwa and the whole of Zimbabwe, and we thank him for bestowing this honour on Jonathan.”
President Mnangagwa pays tribute to national hero
President Mnangagwa has described the late Brigadier General (Retired) Jonathan Willie Hungwe as a loyal cadre whose distinguished military career was marked by dedication and unwavering patriotism.
Speaking at the burial ceremony currently underway at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, President Mnangagwa stated that Brig-Gen (Rtd) Hungwe served the nation with honour and commitment throughout his life.
“He was a loyal cadre who had an illustrious military career,” said President Mnangagwa. “He served the nation with dedication and unwavering patriotism.”
The President expressed his condolences to the bereaved family, saying they should take pride in the rich legacy he leaves behind.
“On my behalf, my family, and the people of Zimbabwe, I once again extend my condolences to the Hungwe family.”
President Mnangagwa praised Brig-Gen (Rtd) Hungwe’s role during the liberation struggle, including his work in Mozambique, where he contributed to strengthening the liberation movement.
He also commended his service after independence, particularly his participation in the Democratic Republic of Congo mission.
The President noted that the late military commander demonstrated courage and strong leadership qualities throughout his career.
“His bravery and selfless leadership inspired others who served alongside him.”
President Mnangagwa added that Brig-Gen (Rtd) Hungwe’s leadership and ability to bring people together would remain part of his enduring legacy.
“He will be remembered as a unifier and astute military leader.”
The President urged the younger generation to emulate the late national hero’s dedication to national service and patriotism.
He called on the nation to continue working towards its development.
“I call on all our people to close ranks and work in unity to achieve the economic and other targets we set for ourselves.”
The President has presented the national flag to Brig-Gen (Retd) Jonathan Willie Hungwe’s widow.
The body is now being taken to the grave site for burial proceedings.
The official programme has ended, President Mnangagwa takes his leave.
