By Tendai Matunhu
The late National Hero, Major General Trust Mugoba was laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre today, where thousands of Zimbabweans bid farewell to the gallant son of the soil.
Addressing mourners at the National Heroes Acre, President Emmerson Mnangagwa paid tribute to the late National Hero saying his selfless, meritorious deeds and clean record has made the late Major General Mugoba secure a place at the National Shrine as well as in people’s hearts.
President Mnangagwa noted that the passing on of Major General Mugoba and former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Gabriel Mugabe is a heavy double blow to the Nation, highlighting that the solemn moments bring back memories of the bitter and protracted armed struggle the Country waged against the British white settler colonialism in our right to independence and self-determination.
Additionally, President Mnangagwa chronicled the liberation history of the late Major General Mugoba highlighting his career successes including the medals that he acquired during his time of service.
The President said the National Hero started his political career at a tender age of 18 years when he crossed the border into Mozambique on, 13 March 1977. He said the late Major General Mugoba got his Military training at Takawira training camp, which he completed in August 1977, and was later posted to Chimoio Headquarters where he was employed as a Medic.
During Major General Mugoba’s post-independence life, he held several high ranking positions in the army which among others include Commanding Officer Parachute Battalion 1985, Deputy Director Directorate of Army Training 1990 and Chief of Staff Administration 2012. He was also seconded to the African Headquarters as the Chief of Staff, Africa Stand-By Force in Addis Ababa, Ethopia, a post he held until his death.
Meanwhile, sister to Major General Mugoba described the late National Hero as a problem solver and a unifier who was loved by all people from all walks of life. She thanked Government on behalf of her family for the befitting send-off of their beloved relative, Major General Mugoba.