Award-winning journalist Hopewell Chin’ono today paid tribute to the late national hero Joshua Nkomo, remembering him as a symbol of unity and strength 25 years after his death.
Taking to social media, Chin’ono wrote: “Remembering Zimbabwe’s Joshua Nkomo, who died of prostate cancer on 1 July 1999 at the age of 82 at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare.”
He described Nkomo as a towering liberation figure, affectionately known as “Father Zimbabwe,” whose leadership helped shape the foundation of modern Zimbabwe.
Nkomo, a trained social worker and nationalist, co-founded the Southern Rhodesia African National Congress in the 1950s and went on to lead the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU) a key player in the liberation war. His fight for the emancipation of black Zimbabweans from colonial rule earned him immense respect both locally and abroad.
Despite facing political marginalisation and betrayal after independence, Nkomo remained committed to peace and reconciliation. His calm demeanour, inclusive vision, and principled leadership stood out during some of the country’s darkest periods.
Hopewell concluded his tribute with a heartfelt message.
“He was deeply respected for his attempts to promote peace during turbulent times, even when he was betrayed or marginalised. May his soul rest in peace!”
