Mnangagwa pays tribute to late VP Nkomo on the 27th anniversary of his passing

By Boitumelo Makhurane | Jul 1, 2026 | 1 Min read

Nkomo, affectionately known as “Chibwe Chitedza”, “Umdala Wethu” and “Father Zimbabwe”, died on July 1,1999 at the age of 82.

HARARE,July.01(NewsDay Live)-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to the late Vice-President Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, describing him as a “gentle giant and passionate nation-builder” as Zimbabwe marks the 27th anniversary of his death today.

Nkomo, affectionately known as “Chibwe Chitedza”, “Umdala Wethu” and “Father Zimbabwe”, died on July 1,1999 at the age of 82.

In a commemoration message, Mnangagwa said Nkomo dedicated his entire adult life to the liberation and service of his country.

“Initially a trade unionist, the late Dr. Nkomo joined active politics with the sole aim to liberate his Motherland from the shackles of colonial bondage,” the President said.

“The revered nationalist and Pan African freedom fighter demonstrated selflessness, and always preached love, unity, peace, hard work and honesty in the service of his People and Nation.”

Nkomo was a co-architect of the Unity Accord, signed on December 22, 1987,ending Gukurahundi attrocities and laying the foundation for lasting national cohesion.

“It remains the bedrock of our stability and cohesion as a people, indeed the pith of our Hunhu/Ubuntu,” Mnangagwa said.

He added that his administration will continue honouring that legacy, adding that Nkomo’s memory will endure as Zimbabwe drives the final phase of its National Development Strategy (2026-2030).