Staff Reporter

President and ZANU PF First Secretary Cde E. D Mnangagwa implored those in the security sector to remain persistent in defending and advancing the country’s interests as demonstrated by departed national heroes, namely Cde Abraham Dumezweni Nkiwane, Cde Michael Chakabva and Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant-General Edzai Absalom Chakanyuka Chimonyo, who were laid to rest yesterday.

President Mnangagwa explained the nobility in life commitment to National service, making reference to the three late heroes who epitomised exceptional patriotism through their gallant fight for the independence and freedom of Zimbabwe.

“Each of the three departed veterans, embody different phases and strands in the rich liberation war history of our country. Their personal journeys were unique, decisive and critical. They each travelled different paths and traversed foreign lands. This tells the vast and meandering distances journeyed in the quest for the freedom and independence of our motherland Zimbabwe.

“The struggle was hard and protracted. The experiences, tragedies and setbacks were equally complex. Many died while survivors carry wounds that may never heal. As we lay to rest these National Heroes, I challenge the nation to continue to ensure that our rich national liberation war heritage maintains a place and value within our society.

“Let us further harness our tangible and intangible diversities and different generations, not only to defend our great country but to propel us to be a more united, peaceful and prosperous nation,” he said.

President Mnangagwa is a known champion of national unity and an advocate for the preservation and protection of history. His outstanding stewardship in the building of the Joshua Nkomo Museum, National History Museum and Museum of African Liberation is a clear testimony to his commitment in preserving the country’s revolutionary ideology.