Antony Chawagarira
Zimbabwe is mourning the loss of decorated military officer and liberation war veteran Simon Bere, who died on Friday in Zambia at the age of 66, bringing to a close a life defined by patriotism, sacrifice and distinguished service to the nation.
In a statement, the Air Force of Zimbabwe confirmed that it had received news of his passing with deep grief and sorrow, describing him as one of the institution’s most respected former commanders whose legacy will remain etched in the history of Zimbabwe’s defence forces.
AFZ Public Relations Officer, Donovan Muroyiwa, said the entire Air Force family was mourning the loss of a dedicated leader whose contributions spanned the liberation struggle and the post-independence development of Zimbabwe’s air defence capabilities.
Born in 1959 in Hurungwe, Air Commodore Bere began his early education at Chiroti and Matau primary schools before continuing his secondary education at Ascot High School. His formative years were shaped by the political climate of the time, which inspired many young Zimbabweans to join the liberation struggle.
Driven by the injustices of colonial rule, he joined the liberation war in 1979 and underwent military training in Mozambique at the historic Tongogara Assembly Point, one of the key centres that prepared freedom fighters for Zimbabwe’s independence struggle.
Following his training, he served in the education department in Mozambique, where he played a pivotal role in mentoring fellow cadres and strengthening the ideological and operational capacity of liberation fighters. His dedication and leadership qualities saw him rise to positions of responsibility, including detachment commander and Political Commissar during the liberation struggle.
After Zimbabwe attained independence in 1980, Air Commodore Bere was attested into the Air Force of Zimbabwe in 1981 as an Aircraftman — the entry-level rank in the Non-Commissioned Officers’ Corps. His rise through the ranks was marked by discipline, commitment and an unwavering sense of duty.
Over a distinguished military career spanning more than four decades, he steadily climbed the ranks to attain the position of Air Commodore, serving in various senior leadership roles within both the Air Force of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces. His tenure was characterised by professionalism, mentorship of younger officers and a deep commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe’s national defence systems.
He retired from active service in 2024 after decades of dedicated service, but remained actively involved in national development initiatives, continuing to offer his experience and leadership in other capacities.
Meanwhile, mourners have gathered at Plot 6, Ansdale Farm in Karoi, where family, friends, former colleagues and members of the liberation war fraternity are paying their respects to the late national hero.Air Commodore Bere is survived by his wife, Reginah Bere, and three children — Chengetai Bere, Takudzwa Bere, and Tendai Bere.
Burial arrangements are expected to be announced in due course as the nation continues to reflect on the life and legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the liberation, protection and service of Zimbabwe.
