Brigadier-General (Retired) Samuel Mpabanga served Zimbabwe with honour and distinction, President Mnangagwa said at the late national hero’s burial at the National Heroes Acre in Harare this morning.
Addressing mourners, President Mnangagwa described Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mpabanga as a “gallant son of Zimbabwe” whose life reflected unwavering patriotism and commitment to the liberation and defence of the nation.
“We gather here at this sacred National Heroes Acre to lay Brigadier General (Rtd) Samuel Mpabanga to rest. He was a distinguished patriot and played a critical role in the liberation of the country,” said the President.
He said it was fitting for the late hero to be laid to rest among fellow liberation fighters who dedicated their lives to securing Zimbabwe’s freedom.
After independence, Brig-Gen Mpabanga continued to serve in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces with “dedication and loyalty,” contributing significantly to the country’s security and defence structures.
President Mnangagwa noted that the hero’s passing comes as the nation prepares for Independence Day celebrations in his home province, Matabeleland South.
Calling on young Zimbabweans to learn from the sacrifices of liberation war heroes, the President said:
“I challenge the youth and learners at all stages to be inspired by our liberation war history so that you become the heroes of our time.”
He added that the Government remains focused on infrastructure development, including the rehabilitation of key roads, as well as broader measures aimed at strengthening economic growth.
Speaking earlier, Brig-Gen Mpabanga’s brother, Stephen Mbizo, thanked President Mnangagwa for conferring national hero status on the late officer.
Brigadier-General (Rtd) Mpabanga is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.
