It Costs 10 US Dollars to Defile Zimbabwe’s Heroes Acre

By Dr. MASIMBA MAVAZA

Heroes Acre is not a stage for political theatrics. It is sacred ground where Zimbabwe honors its bravest sons and daughters. Yet, for just ten dollars, some ministers reportedly hire partisan performers to sing slogans and offensive songs during funerals meant to honor national heroes.

This is not Vision 2030. This is moral decay disguised as patriotism.

Praising another person at someone else’s funeral is seen as insensitive, depending on the context and relationships involved.

Funerals celebrate life and honor the deceased.

The focus should ideally be on remembering their life, legacy, and impact. However, praising someone else can shift attention away from the deceased, diminishing the tribute meant for them.

This is perceived as insensitive because it appears self-serving to use the occasion to promote another person, especially if they are not directly tied to the deceased.

If the praise is integrated into the celebration of the deceased’s life in a way that honors their memory, it may make sense.

Zimbabwe must reject these practices and keep the focus on celebrating the life and legacy of the person who has passed away.

By being considerate, you can ensure your words or songs serve as a fitting tribute to the deceased.

Photo Credit: ZANU PF Plumtree

Generally, it is inappropriate to campaign at a funeral.

Funerals are serious occasions for mourning, reflection, and paying respects to the deceased and their loved ones.

Campaigning is seen as insensitive and disruptive, causing distress to those who are grieving.

Minister Tatenda Mavetera, as a patron of the young Women4ED, must teach and encourage young women at funeral gatherings to respect the deceased and their families.

Campaigning at a funeral is opportunistic and disruptive. It can damage one’s reputation and disturb the mourning process, creating unnecessary tension or conflict.

Ultimately, it is important to prioritize respect, empathy, and care when deciding whether to engage in campaigning at a funeral.

In honouring our heroes, we honor the soul of Zimbabwe—its history, sacrifices, and commitment to liberation and dignity.

Heroes Acre is more than a burial ground; it is part of our national conscience carved into stone and to disrespect this sacred space with partisan chants and paid performances is to cheapen the legacy that unites us.

Let us protect this sanctity—not just with silence, but with reverence, civility, and unity.

In remembrance, may we find wisdom; in mourning, may we rediscover patriotism rooted in collective dignity, not performative allegiance.