President Mnangagwa named two freedom fighters as national heroes for their service to Zimbabwe. Retired Brigadier-General Victor Rungani, 76, died at a Harare hospital on Tuesday. Former intelligence director Walter Basopo, 66, passed away the same day at a South African medical facility. Both men came from Masvingo province. Security Minister Lovemore Matuke told their families about the honors.
Rungani served as the director of army engineering equipment. After military service, he farmed cattle, goats, and pigs and grew various crops. His daughter, Professor Ellen Rungani, thanked officials for recognizing her father's contributions. Mourners gathered at his Goromonzi farm home. Matuke called Basopo "a true patriot" during the announcement.
Both men fought in the liberation struggle before taking leadership roles after independence. Rungani joined the fight in 1975 through Mozambique, receiving training at Mapinduzi Military Camp. Basopo entered the struggle in 1976 under ZANLA forces. The heroes will rest at National Heroes Acre on dates still pending.
Rungani served as the director of army engineering equipment. After military service, he farmed cattle, goats, and pigs and grew various crops. His daughter, Professor Ellen Rungani, thanked officials for recognizing her father's contributions. Mourners gathered at his Goromonzi farm home. Matuke called Basopo "a true patriot" during the announcement.
Both men fought in the liberation struggle before taking leadership roles after independence. Rungani joined the fight in 1975 through Mozambique, receiving training at Mapinduzi Military Camp. Basopo entered the struggle in 1976 under ZANLA forces. The heroes will rest at National Heroes Acre on dates still pending.
