Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabweans to draw inspiration from the enduring legacy of the late former Vice President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, describing him as a selfless nationalist whose lifelong commitment to peace, unity and nation-building remains a guiding light for the country.
In a message commemorating the 27th anniversary of Dr Nkomo’s passing on Wednesday, President Mnangagwa said the founding father, affectionately known as “Umdala Wethu” or “Father Zimbabwe”, played a defining role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and post-independence development.
“Today, the First of July 2026, our great Nation which includes its Diaspora Community, joins the Nkomo Family in remembering the 27th Anniversary of the late national hero and Vice President of our Republic, Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, who passed on 1st July, 1999,” he said.
He paid tribute to Dr Nkomo’s unwavering dedication to the liberation of Zimbabwe, saying his contribution went beyond the struggle for independence to shaping a united and peaceful nation.
“The late Vice President, also affectionately known as ‘Chibwechitedza’, or Umdala Wethu or Father Zimbabwe’, dedicated his entire adult life to the struggle and service of his countrymen and women. Initially a trade unionist, the late Dr Nkomo joined active politics with the sole aim to liberate his Motherland from the shackles of colonial bondage,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said Dr Nkomo’s courage and integrity earned him lasting respect both at home and abroad.
“The revered nationalist and Pan African freedom fighter demonstrated selflessness, and always preached love, unity, peace, hard work and honesty in the service of his People and Nation.”
The President described Dr Nkomo as one of the principal architects of Zimbabwe’s unity, saying his statesmanship was instrumental in fostering national reconciliation and stability.
“Our Nation fondly remembers him as a co-architect of the historic Unity Accord which was signed on 22nd December, 1987, ushering in an era of durable Peace and National Unity which endures to this day.”
He added that the Unity Accord remains one of Dr Nkomo’s greatest legacies.
“The Second Republic commits itself to upholding and furthering his priceless bequest which must pass from generation to generation without any glitch or interruption. It remains the bedrock of our stability and cohesion as a people, indeed the pillar of our Harambee/Ubuntu.”
President Mnangagwa also acknowledged Dr Nkomo’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s development after independence, saying his vision continues to inspire the country’s growth agenda.
“As the Second Republic drives the last phase of our National Development Strategy (2026-2030), memories of this doyen of African liberation, this gentle giant and passionate nation-builder, shall forever remain etched in our hearts and chronicles of our Nation.”
New Ziana
