By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to the late national hero and former Vice President, Comrade Joseph Wilfred Msika, as the nation marks 16 years since his death.
In a statement released today, President Mnangagwa hailed Cde Msika as a fearless and dedicated freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s liberation and post-independence development.
“Today, as we commemorate the life of one of our foremost liberators, we reaffirm our commitment to the values he stood for independence, sovereignty, and national development,” the President said.
Cde Msika, affectionately known as “Bruno,” passed away on August 4, 2009. A staunch nationalist, he was instrumental in the fight against colonial rule and racial oppression, and was deeply involved in the recruitment of young cadres to join liberation training camps across the region.
President Mnangagwa described Msika as a symbol of unity and integrity, urging Zimbabweans to follow his example.
“His values of selflessness, unity, peace, freedom, and honesty must be embraced by all as we continue building our nation,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader significance of the day, the President said the memory of Cde Msika—and all departed national heroes and heroines—must inspire resilience in the face of neo-colonial threats and renewed dedication to economic progress.
“As we pursue Vision 2030, our journey toward an empowered, knowledge-based, and technology-driven upper-middle-income society must be guided by the ideals he fought for,” President Mnangagwa added.
He also called on Zimbabweans to honor the legacy of their heroes by increasing agricultural productivity through climate-smart practices, ensuring food security and national prosperity.
Cde Msika remains a towering figure in Zimbabwe’s history, remembered for his unwavering patriotism, leadership, and enduring commitment to justice and freedom.