National

VP Mohadi Praises Josiah Tongogara Memorial Site and Health Centre in Mozambique

By Staff Reporter

VICE PRESIDENT Kembo Mohadi has commended the ongoing preservation of the Josiah Magama Tongogara Memorial Site in Mozambique, recognizing it as an essential landmark in the history of Zimbabwe’s independence.

During his visit to the memorial site, Vice President Mohadi highlighted the significant role of the Josiah Magama Tongogara Foundation, which, with support from the Government of Zimbabwe and the Ministry of Defence, established the site in 2012. The site honors General Tongogara, a pivotal figure in the country’s liberation struggle.

Upon arrival at Vilankulo International Airport, the Vice President was warmly received by supporters of FRELIMO, a reflection of the strong ties between Zimbabwe’s ZANU PF party and Mozambique’s ruling FRELIMO party. The memorial site includes a cenotaph, a symbolic grave, and a memorial tree—all commemorating Tongogara’s legacy.

In addition to the memorial, a health centre, built in partnership with the Mozambican government, has been established in honor of the late General. The centre is set to be handed over to the local community by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

After touring the site, Vice President Mohadi shared personal recollections of General Tongogara. “He was a true general, always giving orders with authority. I remember when I worked at Zimbabwe House in Zambia, he would come and assign me tasks. He would tell me, ‘Young man, do A, B, and C,’ and I would carry them out. He was a leader who always promoted unity among people. It’s unfortunate he passed away just before our independence—he should have been there to see it,” Mohadi reflected.

The Vice President praised the efforts to preserve the site where General Tongogara tragically lost his life, noting, “I’m pleased to see how well the place is maintained. The epitaph, his history, the symbolic grave, and the tree planted in his honor by a local farmer are all meaningful tributes. I must commend Ana Mandima and the National Museums and Monuments team for the excellent work they’ve done. This is the kind of care we want to see at every site where our liberation heroes are laid to rest.”

To Mohadi, General Tongogara’s legacy is one of unity and peace. “He embodied unity, cooperation, and development. His commitment to Zimbabwe and to Africa was unwavering. He was a champion of peace not only within our borders but across the entire continent,” Mohadi emphasized.

General Tongogara’s vision for Zimbabwe was one of freedom, fairness, and a world where children could play and live without fear. His sacrifices were rooted in the belief that African people deserved liberation and equality.

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