Nation Pays Final Tribute as Three Liberation War Veterans Are Buried at National Heroes Acre

Three of Zimbabwe’s liberation war veterans were laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre on Monday, 23 March 2026, in a ceremony presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. 

The late Major General (Rtd) Herbert Chingono, Cde Cosmas Chiringa, and Cde Elson Mupamaonde were declared national heroes in recognition of their contributions to the country’s liberation struggle and post-independence development.

The burial ceremony, held in Harare’s Warren Park suburb, was attended by senior government officials, military commanders, liberation war veterans, church members, and members of the public, who gathered to honour the trio’s legacy.

His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, officiated at the burial and urged citizens to uphold the values of patriotism, unity, and integrity in line with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.

Major General (Rtd) Chingono, whose Chimurenga name was Swift Chakanyuka, passed away at Westend Hospital in Harare at the age of 67. Cde Chiringa died at the age of 68, while Cde Mupamaonde passed away earlier this month at 76.

During the liberation struggle, the three veterans played different but significant roles, including military operations, political mobilization, and the training of cadres both locally and internationally.

The ceremony was marked by military honours, including gun salutes and the draping of coffins in the national flag, symbolizing the nation’s recognition of their service.

This burial marked one of the rare occasions where three national heroes were interred on the same day, reflecting a moment of collective national mourning and remembrance.