Sanyati District’s war veterans legal affairs officer, Cde Hliziyo Msindazi, has died at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy of sacrifice, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the liberation and development of Zimbabwe. He passed away last Wednesday following a short illness and was buried at his Alabama plot in Kadoma over the weekend.
Msindazi’s funeral was attended by government officials, fellow war veterans, family members, and scores of ZANU PF supporters, all of whom paid tribute to a man widely respected for his humility, discipline, and loyalty to the nation.
Msindazi joined the liberation struggle in 1976 during the height of Zimbabwe’s Second Chimurenga. Like many young men of his generation, he crossed the border into Mozambique where he received military training to fight against colonial rule. His commitment to the cause earned him the trust of commanders who later selected him for further administrative training in Yugoslavia.“While others came back at independence, Cde Msindazi remained behind because he had been sent to Yugoslavia for advanced training. The idea was to prepare cadres who would help build the post-colonial state,” said Energy Minister July Moyo, who attended the burial and delivered a heartfelt eulogy. “His mother struggled to accept his departure, not knowing where he had gone. When he finally returned, he continued serving his country, this time in uniform.”
Liberation War Veteran Hliziyo Msindazi Laid to Rest in Kadoma
War veteran Msindazi joined the Zimbabwe Republic Police upon his return and served with distinction, rising to the rank of superintendent. During his time in the force, he was posted to Parliament, where he witnessed the transition from Rhodesian rule to black majority governance—a transition he had personally fought to bring about.
“It is somewhat ironic that he had to salute Ian Smith and other former Rhodesian officials at Parliament after independence,” Moyo said. “But it speaks to his discipline and professionalism.”
His son, Dumisani Msindazi, described his father as a grounded and principled man who never allowed his liberation war credentials to cloud his humility.
“My unassuming father remained committed to the cause of Zimbabwe until the very end. He was passionate about ZANU PF and always encouraged us to be patriotic. As a family, we are deeply grateful to His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa for honouring him,” Dumisani said.
Throughout his life, Msindazi remained involved in national affairs, particularly those relating to the welfare and legal affairs of war veterans in Mashonaland West. He was a respected voice within the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association and often advocated for greater recognition of the sacrifices made by former freedom fighters.
In her remarks at the burial, Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs Minister Marian Chombo encouraged the younger generation to draw inspiration from Msindazi’s life.
“Cde Msindazi fought in the armed struggle, but the struggle for a better Zimbabwe continues. Today, we are engaged in an economic war—a war that demands the same level of dedication and unity. That includes our youths, women, and war veterans alike. Our Vision 2030 goal of attaining upper-middle-income status is only achievable if we all play our part,” she said.
Chombo emphasized the importance of preserving the history and contributions of liberation war heroes, noting that the country’s independence came at a high cost and should never be taken for granted.Also present at the funeral were Midlands Provincial Affairs Minister, former Mbizo legislator Vongaishe Mupereri, senior ZANU PF officials, war collaborators, and members of the security services. They all described Msindazi as a selfless cadre who served the nation in both war and peace.
After retiring from active public service, Msindazi turned his attention to farming, working the land on his Alabama plot where he would later be laid to rest. Those close to him say he remained deeply involved in community issues and continued mentoring young war veterans and aspiring leaders.He is survived by his wife and seven children.
As Zimbabwe continues to lose members of its liberation generation, the passing of Cde Hliziyo Msindazi marks the end of yet another chapter in the nation’s heroic history. His life serves as a reminder of the resilience and dedication that brought freedom to the country, and of the responsibility that now lies with the younger generation to safeguard that legacy.
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