President Emmerson Mnangagwa has conferred national hero status on Brigadier-General (Retd) Mark Charles Chimwaza, recognising his role in the liberation struggle and his contributions to national development.
Brig-Gen (Rtd) Chimwaza, a war veteran, passed away on 11 December 2025 at his home after battling lung cancer. He was 68.
Earlier reports had described his death as resulting from a short illness.
The conferment of hero status was announced by the Secretary for Security in the Politburo and State Security Minister, Lovemore Matuke, at the Chimwaza family home in Kuwadzana 7, Harare. He said:
“President Mnangagwa, who is the First Secretary of the party (ZANU-PF), has conferred national hero status on Brig-Gen (Rtd) Chimwaza.”
“He will be interred at the National Heroes Acre at a date to be advised. The President considered the role played by Brig-Gen (Rtd) Chimwaza during and after the liberation struggle and has seen it fit to accord him this highest honour.
“The late Brigadier-General (Retired) was a distinguished military officer whose work we shall forever cherish.
“Above all, he remained focused and steadfast in the face of neo-colonial machinations by our detractors.”
Brig-Gen (Rtd) Chimwaza, whose nom de guerre was Cde Paddington Chafachaora, was born on 4 October 1957 in Mutare District, Manicaland Province, under Chief Marange and Headman Kurauone.
He left school in 1976 and crossed into Mozambique to join the liberation struggle as a ZANLA cadre.
He first stayed at Doroi Camp before moving to Chimoio for initial military training at Takawira Two in 1977.
However, the Chimoio Camp was attacked before he could complete his training, forcing him to return to Doroi Camp. He later completed his training at the Tembwe ZANLA military base in 1978.
Towards the end of 1979, Brig-Gen Chimwaza was selected for cadet military training in Romania, where he specialised in Field Artillery until 1982.
A highly decorated soldier, Brig-Gen Chimwaza dedicated decades to the service of his nation, demonstrating leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.
He was awarded the Liberation Medal and the Independence Medal for his contributions to Zimbabwe’s independence.
For his role in the formation and development of the Zimbabwe National Army during its early years, he received the Ten Years’ Service Medal.
His professionalism was further recognised with the Long and Exemplary Service Medal for fifteen years of distinguished service.
Brig-Gen Chimwaza also earned the Mozambique Campaign Medal and the DRC Campaign Medal for his efforts in restoring peace and stability in those countries.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements and service to Zimbabwe and humanity, he was bestowed with the Grand Officer of the Zimbabwe Order of Merit Award.
He retired from active service on 10 April 2022, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in the Zimbabwe National Army and the wider defence forces.
Brig-Gen Chimwaza is survived by his wife, Viola, and three daughters. Mourners have gathered at House Number 5373, Kuwadzana 7, Harare.
Further details on funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
More: The Herald
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