Decorated former Zimbabwe National Army senior officer, Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo, has died. He was 72.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo died on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Avenues Clinic in Harare.
Confirming the death, Director of Army Public Relations Colonel Hlengiwe Dube said the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, had expressed deep sadness over the passing of the retired senior officer.
“The Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, is saddened to announce the untimely death of Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo, which occurred on 7 July 2026 at Avenues Clinic, Harare,” Col Dube said in a statement.
She said Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo is survived by his wife, Lois Ruwodo, and three children.
Mourners are gathered at House Number 92, Folyjon Crescent, Glen Lorne, Harare, while burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
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Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo was among the Zimbabwe National Army’s most decorated retired senior officers, serving the country’s defence forces for decades in both military and public administration roles.
He rose through the ranks to become Brigadier General before being promoted to Major General upon his retirement in August 2008.
Following his military career, Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo served as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence and War Veterans’ Affairs.
He also held senior positions as Chief Director and Director for War Veterans’ Affairs, where he played a key role in formulating and implementing policies affecting former liberation fighters.
He was widely recognised for championing the welfare of liberation war veterans, regularly appearing before parliamentary committees to advocate for improved pensions, healthcare and expanded economic opportunities for ex-combatants.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo also chaired and served on several boards and trusts, including the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association board, which was mandated to advance economic empowerment initiatives and secure benefits for war veterans.
Tributes from government officials, military colleagues and veterans are expected as the nation reflects on the life and service of one of the country’s most respected retired military officers.
Further details, including funeral and burial arrangements, are expected to be announced by the family and the Zimbabwe National Army.
