President Mnangagwa Confers National Hero Status on Ambassador Victor Matemadanda

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the late Victor Matemadanda a National Hero, honouring his distinguished contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and decades of dedicated service to the nation.

The conferment of National Hero status recognises Ambassador Matemadanda’s unwavering commitment to the country, both during the armed struggle for independence and throughout his post-independence service in Government and diplomacy.

A respected liberation war veteran, Ambassador Matemadanda was among the cadres who played a significant role in Zimbabwe’s fight for freedom. Following independence, he continued serving the nation in various leadership positions, earning recognition for his dedication to national development and public service.

In the diplomatic arena, Ambassador Matemadanda represented Zimbabwe as Ambassador to Mozambique and Eswatini, where he worked to strengthen bilateral relations and advance Zimbabwe’s interests abroad.

His death on Saturday night, following a short illness, has been met with an outpouring of condolences from across the country, with many remembering him as a committed patriot, seasoned freedom fighter and devoted public servant.

The declaration of National Hero status places Ambassador Matemadanda among Zimbabwe’s most revered sons and daughters whose sacrifices and service helped shape the nation’s history and development.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.

By Witness A Phiri