Harare (New Ziana)-Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Iran, Christopher Mapanga has died, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade said on Friday.

Ambassador Mapanga (69) was deployed to Iran in 2019.

In a statement, secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade, James Manzou said Ambassador Mapanga died on Wednesday.

Since joining the ministry in 1981, Ambassador Mapanga served in various capacities at a number of Zimbabwe’s embassies including Japan, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Moscow and Egypt.

In 2019, he was transferred to Tehran as Ambassador, a post he held until his untimely death.

“In Ambassador Mapanga, the Ministry has lost a steady and calming hand in diplomacy. He was a born leader who mentored many officers currently serving both at Head Office and abroad.

“His entire adult life was spent in service to his country. He was a hard-working diplomat, known for his dedication to duty, leadership skills and diligence,” he said.

Manzou added : “His demise is not only a loss to his family, friends and relatives, but also to the Ministry, where his devotion to duty and leadership left an indelible mark. He will be sorely missed by all those touched by his illustrious life”.

New Ziana