By Antony Chawagarira
President Emmerson Mnangagwa described the late former Vice-President, Dr Simon Vengai Muzenda, as a fearless revolutionary whose contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation and development continue to inspire generations.
The President made these remarks in a message marking the 23rd anniversary of Dr Muzenda’s death, who passed away on September 20, 2003.
Dr Muzenda, born on October 28, 1922, devoted his adult life to the struggle against colonial rule and played a significant role in shaping Zimbabwe’s political and socio-economic landscape after independence.
President Mnangagwa said Dr Muzenda’s determination to liberate Zimbabwe remained unshaken despite his imprisonment by the colonial regime.
“The late Cde. Muzenda, who passed away on September 20, 2003, was a fearless freedom fighter and revolutionary who devoted his entire adult life to liberating his motherland from colonial bondage,” said President Mnangagwa.
He said Dr Muzenda’s resolve to free Zimbabwe remained unbroken during his incarceration and became a source of inspiration for fellow freedom fighters and the masses.
Following independence in 1980, Dr Muzenda served as Zimbabwe’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs until 1987, when he became Vice-President, a position he held until his death.
President Mnangagwa said Dr Muzenda played a pivotal role in rebuilding and uniting Zimbabwe after the liberation war.
“In these roles, he played a pivotal part in uniting and building a nation emerging from armed conflict,” he said.
The President also recognised Dr Muzenda’s contribution to land reform and rural empowerment, stating that his practical approach to national challenges contributed to the socio-economic transformation of rural communities.
He said the late national hero’s advocacy for the empowerment of indigenous Zimbabweans remains relevant as the country pursues its development agenda.
“As we implement the National Development Strategy 2 and focus on rural industrialisation, we rededicate ourselves to preserving the legacy of Cde. Muzenda and other towering revolutionaries of his era and our nation,” said President Mnangagwa.
He urged Zimbabweans to uphold the values associated with Dr Muzenda, including unity, peace, patriotism, and respect for cultural heritage.
Fondly remembered as the “Soul of the Nation,” Dr Muzenda was also celebrated for his down-to-earth approach to politics and his commitment to practical solutions to national challenges.
President Mnangagwa concluded by honouring him as a veteran nationalist, liberator, and cultural icon whose legacy remains embedded in Zimbabwe’s history.
“May the soul of the late veteran nationalist, liberator, and cultural icon, Cde. Simon Vengai Muzenda, rest in eternal peace,” he said.
