Chimwaza Honoured With National Hero Status

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the late Brigadier-General (Retired) Mark Charles Chimwaza a National Hero in recognition of his outstanding service to Zimbabwe during and after the liberation struggle.

Brig-Gen Chimwaza, a respected liberation war veteran and former senior officer in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), passed away on December 11 at his Kuwadzana home after a battle with lung cancer. He was 68.

The conferment of the honour was announced yesterday by ZANU-PF Politburo Secretary for Security and State Security Minister, Cde Lovemore Matuke, who addressed mourners at the Chimwaza family residence in Kuwadzana 7, Harare.

Cde Matuke said President Mnangagwa, in his capacity as ZANU-PF First Secretary, had approved the highest national honour after considering Chimwaza’s role in Zimbabwe’s liberation and post-Independence development.

“The President has accorded Brigadier-General (Retired) Mark Charles Chimwaza National Hero status,” said Cde Matuke. “He will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre, with burial arrangements to be communicated in due course.”

He described the late officer as a committed and disciplined cadre whose contribution to national defence and unity would remain a source of pride for generations.

Zimbabwe National Army Commander, Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, also paid tribute to the fallen officer, describing him as a professional, loyal and principled soldier.

In a statement, Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the ZNA and the nation had lost a dependable leader whose military career was defined by integrity, humility and dedication to duty.

Born on October 4, 1957, in Mutare District, Manicaland Province, Brig-Gen Chimwaza — whose liberation war name was Cde Paddington Chafachaora — left school in 1976 to join the armed struggle as a ZANLA combatant.

He underwent military training at several camps in Mozambique, including Doroi, Chimoio and Tembwe, before completing his training in 1978. In 1979, he was selected for advanced cadet training in Romania, where he specialised in Field Artillery, completing the course in 1982.

Over the years, Brig-Gen Chimwaza distinguished himself as a senior military officer and played a key role in the integration and development of the Zimbabwe National Army during its formative years.

His decorated military career earned him several honours, including the Liberation Medal, Independence Medal, Ten Years’ Service Medal, Long and Exemplary Service Medal, Mozambique Campaign Medal and the Democratic Republic of Congo Campaign Medal.

In recognition of his exceptional service to the nation, he was also awarded the Grand Officer of the Zimbabwe Order of Merit.

Brig-Gen Chimwaza retired from active military service on April 10, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and commitment to national service.

He is survived by his wife, Viola Chimwaza, and three daughters. Mourners are gathered at House Number 5373, Kuwadzana 7, Harare.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.