Gweru (New Ziana) – Civil servants should emulate the dedication to duty, and loyalty to the country, shown by the late Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo Air Force base commander, Air Commodore Pio Pasipamire Maketo, a senior government official said on Friday.
Speaking at Maketo’s funeral at the Gweru Provincial Heroes Acre, Midlands Province Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Larry Mavima said the late senior air force officer was honest and committed to both work and country.
He died in a car accident a few days ago and bestowed provincial hero status.
“Air Commodore Maketo was an Air officer who has left an exemplary legacy of flying excellence and command,” Mavima, who was represented at the funeral by a director in his office, said.
He said the air force, Maketo’s family and the Midlands Province as a whole, would be poorer following the airman’s demise in the accident, which also claimed other lives.
Maketo collided head-one with a bus near Chegutu and died on the spot.
“His (Maketo) remarkable conduct and dedication to duty shall always be remembered,” Mavima said.
His dedication to duty and illustrious career earned him the Independence, 10 years’ service, Mozambique campaign, Democratic Republic of Congo and Long and Exemplary service medals.
Meanwhile, President Emmerson Mnangagwa mourned the senior air force officer in a condolence message to the family earlier in the week.
He said the death had robbed the air force of an exceptional and dedicated officer, who would forever be remembered.
New Ziana
