Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has described the passing of National Hero, Cde Tinaye Chigudu, as a great loss to Zimbabwe, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the liberation struggle and post-independence development.
Speaking at the National Heroes Acre, the President said Cde Chigudu’s contributions to the nation were immeasurable.
“Our late National Hero, Cde Chigudu, was among many brave, selfless sons and daughters of the soil who took a stand and fought for our independence.
“He is honoured as one of the first combatants to be sent for training in North Korea under the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA), the military wing of the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU),” President Mnangagwa said.
Born on August 13, 1942, Cde Chigudu attended Chigudu School and Cyrene Mission before enrolling at Harare Secondary School. His political activism led to his expulsion in 1964, prompting him to leave Zimbabwe and join the liberation struggle in Zambia. He became an intelligence operative, gathering critical information on the Rhodesian forces.
“During the struggle, he undertook risky and critical tasks that helped to gather intelligence on the racist Rhodesian forces,” the President noted.
His espionage efforts were vital in planning and executing military operations. However, he was captured, detained, and imprisoned for 12 years by the Rhodesian regime.
Despite his imprisonment, Cde Chigudu’s resolve remain unshaken. Upon his release, he reunited with his comrades in Zambia and resumed his role in the liberation struggle. After independence in 1980, he served in government, beginning as an Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Transport before rising through the ranks to become Permanent Secretary in the Ministries of Home Affairs and Mines. He also served as Governor of Manicaland Province and later as ZANU PF Chairman for the province.
President Mnangagwa described Cde Chigudu as a leader of integrity and dedication.
“He was a fountain of wisdom who offered sound counsel in both Party and Government business.
“His unwavering commitment to national service and humility must be emulated by all,” he said.
The President emphasized, Cde Chigudu’s legacy should inspire Zimbabweans to work towards national unity and development.
“Let us honour our heroes by upholding the principles of servant leadership, transparency, and patriotism,” he urged.
As Zimbabwe bids farewell to Cde Chigudu, his contributions to the country’s freedom and progress will remain a lasting inspiration for generations to come.
