Government has announced that President Emmerson Mnangagwa will preside over the burial of the late National Hero, Brigadier General (Rtd) Samuel Mpabanga , at the National Heroes Acre, on Wednesday.
In a statement, yesterday , the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage advised the nation of the burial arrangements and movements of the late hero’s remains.
“The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage wishes to advise the nation that the late National Hero, Brigadier General (Rtd) Samuel Mpabanga will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre on Wednesday, the 18th of February 2026. His Excellency, The President, Cde Dr E.D. Mnangagwa will preside over this burial,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry confirmed that mourners are currently gathered in Bulawayo.
“Mourners are gathered at 4 McGee Road, Savestown in Bulawayo,” the statement read.
The Ministry outlined a series of ceremonial proceedings to be held ahead of the burial.
“Today from 1000hrs, the remains of the late National Hero will be ferried to Plot 20 Jannee Farm in West Nicholson for a brief ceremony. The cortege will depart from the farm at 1200hrs for his rural homestead in Mapate Village in Gwanda South where a church service will be held in his honour,” the Ministry said.
Following the rural ceremonies, the remains will return to Bulawayo.
“The remains of the National Hero are expected back in Bulawayo at 1500hrs where he will lie in state at Doves Funeral Parlour,” the Ministry added.
Further arrangements include an air transfer ahead of the burial.
“On Tuesday, 17 February, 2026, the late National Hero will be airlifted to Charles Gumbo Barracks where he will again lie in state ahead of burial on Wednesday,” the statement said.
The Ministry urged mourners to observe the scheduled timelines.
“Burial proceedings will commence on Wednesday, the 18th of February 2026, and mourners are expected to be seated by 0700hrs,” it said.
Brigadier General (Rtd) Samuel Mpabanga was declared a National Hero over the weekend in recognition of his contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and national development. The National Heroes Acre serves as the country’s official shrine for individuals honoured for their outstanding service to the nation.
