Ex-Manicaland Governor Tinaye Chigudu, Declared National Hero

Former ZIPRA senior member and ex-Governor of Manicaland, Tinaye Chigudu, has been declared a national hero by Zanu PF following his passing in Harare on Wednesday.

President Emerson Mnangagwa expressed deep sorrow over Chigudu’s death, commending his role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle a d his dedicated service to both the ruling Zanu-PF party and the Government.

“I received with deep sorrow and sadness, news of the untimely death of Tinaye Elisha Nzirasha Chigudu, a veteran of our liberation struggle,” said President Mnangagwa. “He was among the brave sons and daughters of the soil who took a stand and fought for the Independence of Zimbabwe.”

By Ruvarashe Gora

Chigudu was among the earliest combatants trained under the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZPRA) in North Korea. His expertise in intelligence operations during the liberation war proved crucial, particularly in Salisbury (now Harare), where he gathered strategic information on Rhodesian military tactics, significantly aiding guerrilla warfare efforts.

Despite being captured and sentenced to 12 years in prison by the colonial regime, Chigudu remained resolute. Upon his release, he rejoined the liberation struggle, playing a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s eventual independence in 1980.

After independence, Chigudu continued serving Zimbabwe in various leadership roles within both Government and Zanu-PF. He notably held the position of Manicaland Provincial Governor and was a senior official in different government ministries. President Mnangagwa described him as a “fountain of wisdom” whose guidance shaped key decisions in both Party and Government affairs.

In recognition of his immense contributions, the Zanu-PF Politburo has conferred National Hero status on Chigudu. He will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, a site reserved for Zimbabwe’s most distinguished liberation fighters.

On behalf of the Party, Zanu-PF, Government, my family, and on my behalf, I wish to express my deepest, heartfelt condolences to the Chigudu family on this sad loss. May the family derive comfort from the contribution he made to this Great Nation,” said President Mnangagwa.

Chigudu’s legacy as a liberation hero, dedicated public servant, and pillar of wisdom in national affairs will be remembered as Zimbabwe honors his lifelong commitment to the country’s freedom and development.