Acting President Pays Tribute to Late National Hero Cde Justin Hugh Mbombo Mupamhanga

By Ilyana Sithole

The Acting President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Vice President Hon. Gen. (Retd) C.G.D.N. Chiwenga, today eulogised the late national hero, Cde Justin Hugh Mbombo Mupamhanga, at his burial at the National Heroes’ Acre.

In his speech, Chiwenga sent deep condolences to Amai Idah Mupamhanga, Cde Mupamhanga’s widow, and their children, among whom is the Deputy Minister for Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Hon Kuda Mupamhanga. “May they be comforted that the whole Nation stands with them to mourn this great son,” said Chiwenga.

Cde Mupamhanga, popularly known as “Comrade Top Ten,” was remembered for his unflinching dedication to the country’s liberation struggle. Born on March 1, 1953, in Goneso Village, Hwedza District, he joined the fight for freedom in the 1970s, leaving school to join what came to be known as “The 8,” a group of educated youths equally dedicated to Zimbabwe’s independence.

Chiwenga referred to the great contribution by Mupamhanga immediately after independence, serving in the President’s Department and later as Secretary for Energy and Power Development. His efforts were especially appreciated during crisis situations, such as the droughts caused by El Niño, where he led the charge on ensuring the nation’s food security.

The Acting President also paid his respects to the legacy of Mupamhanga, emphasizing the need for unity in attaining national objectives through joint effort. “If we are to realize an Upper Middle-Income Economy as envisioned by our President, Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, we must produce more and industrialize our economy,” he said.

The litany of praises culminated with a eulogy by Chiwenga, where he paid homage to the spirit of service and patriotism by Mupamhanga, calling upon Zimbabweans to emulate the values he stood for: “Cde Mupamhanga leaves behind a legacy of integrity, hard work, and an unyielding resolve to protect our nation’s values and resources.”.

Mupamhanga’s burial among fellow heroes serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for Zimbabwe’s independence and the continuing responsibility to stand up for the ideals they fought for. As the mourners laid him to rest, words by Chiwenga echoed the collective commitment to the memory of Mupamhanga through continued dedication to the nation’s progress.

The ceremony drew bigwigs from government and the ruling ZANU PF party, among other mourners, in paying tribute to a man whose life was devoted to the liberation and development of Zimbabwe.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.