By Garikai Chikuvira
The laying to rest of the late Ruwa businessman and philanthropist Joseph Mutangadura recently at Goromonzi Turn-Off Cemetery in a solemn and emotionally charged atmosphere was more than just a burial.
It was a reflection of a life lived in service, a protest against injustice, and a public cry for accountability. His father, Reverend Naboth Mutangadura, guided mourners in prayer and reflection, grounding the service in Scripture such as John 16:6.
The verse, which speaks of sorrow at parting, felt deeply relevant to a gathering of people still coming to terms with a sudden and devastating loss. Mutangadura, popularly known as Mtangza, was reportedly killed by seven armed gunmen during an attempted robbery at his farmhouse on the night of August 17.
He was 67. Police said seven masked attackers armed with pistols, claw bars, and hammers broke into Mutangadura’s home just after midnight and shot him in what many are now calling a cold and calculated execution. His son Munyaradzi said he rushed him to hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Police investigations are still underway. In an interview with Chaminuka later, Reverend Mutangadura expressed his deep sorrow and called for justice. “Whoever took my son’s life must not go unpunished. His life was cut short before his time, and we pray that the truth will prevail. No father should have to bury his child, especially under such circumstances,” he said,” his voice thick with emotion.
The service attracted hundreds of mourners from all corners of the country—family members, government officials, local leaders, businesspeople, and ordinary citizens—who came not only to grieve, but to honour a life that had profoundly impacted so many.
Minister of Youth, Empowerment Tino Machakaire, a close relative of the deceased, spoke with both pain and pride. “We are gathered here today to mourn a great man—a man who lived in peace with everyone, who mentored me, who helped me in my personal life just as I did for him. Tangatichibatana pamwe chete nemurume akarara apa. Zvaainazvo ndakamubatsira. Muzukuru wangu, Mutangadura, anobva kuWedza,” Machaikaire said.
“He supported many families, many of whom called him father. Now, after his brutal killing, who will they turn to? Justice should be served. I know those responsible for his death will be caught. This country cannot allow such evil to go unanswered. “Once the killers are apprehended, they will face the full wrath of the law. They will suffer for what they’ve done. This was no ordinary man. We owe him justice,” he added.
The sense of grief at the funeral was compounded by a shared frustration: the suspects linked to Mutangadura’s death remain at large. Despite the pain, the community came together in solidarity, showing just how much Joseph Mutangadura meant to those around him.
In the days leading up to the burial, a commuter rank was established specifically to transport mourners from Ruwa bus stops (including the George area) directly to his gate—a testament to the scale of the event.
The new transport route also improved logistics for local farmers and residents, a silver lining in an otherwise dark cloud. Also in attendance was popular musician Saintfloew, who took a moment to speak to Chaminuka. Known for his emotional and heartfelt lyrics, Saintfloew was visibly moved.
“Zviri kuitika hazvina kubata anyone zvirinani. Zviri kurwadza,” he said somberly. “What’s happening affects all of us. It’s painful.” As the sun set over Goromonzi, the community left the cemetery not with closure, but with a unified demand: that truth, justice, and memory must prevail.
New Ziana
