Horror Crash– The Midlands province was plunged into mourning this week as two revered war veterans, Abias Pelile and Cde Solomon Nhondova, were laid to rest at the Gweru Provincial Heroes Acre following a devastating road traffic crash that claimed their lives on July 25. The two liberation fighters, both known for their unwavering dedication to Zimbabwe’s independence struggle and post-war community service, died in what has been described as a tragic and untimely loss.
Their burial, held under sombre skies, came just hours after the province had bid farewell to another liberation stalwart, Cde Mundenguma, who was interred at Destiny Memorial Park over the weekend. The succession of losses has dealt a heavy emotional blow to the province, especially among war veterans and communities who looked up to the trio for leadership and inspiration.
The joint burial ceremony of Pelile and Nhondova was attended by a host of dignitaries, led by Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Owen Ncube and Gweru City Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko. The occasion was marked by military honours, emotional eulogies, and tributes reflecting the two men’s immense contributions to the liberation war and post-independence development.
Minister Ncube, addressing mourners, described the deaths of Pelile and Nhondova as “a great loss to both the province and the nation,” and urged young Zimbabweans to emulate the values of patriotism, courage, and selflessness that the departed heroes embodied.
Midlands Mourns as War Veterans Pelile and Nhondova Laid to Rest After Tragic Crash
“These comrades did not just fight in the war of liberation — they continued to serve this country long after the guns went silent,” Ncube said. “Their commitment to building Zimbabwe did not end at ceasefire. They remained pillars in their communities and mentors to many.”
Mayor Chivhoko echoed the same sentiment, praising the two late war veterans for their tireless work in community mobilisation, veterans’ welfare advocacy, and youth mentorship. He noted that both men had become trusted voices in provincial affairs, often consulted on social, economic, and political issues affecting the region.
“We have lost giants of the revolution,” said Chivhoko. “Their wisdom, courage, and humility touched many lives. They lived not for themselves, but for their people. Gweru, and indeed the whole Midlands province, is poorer without them.”
Family members of the deceased, while overwhelmed with grief, took comfort in the national recognition afforded to their loved ones. One family representative described the honour of burial at the provincial shrine as “a dignified farewell that reflects the magnitude of their sacrifice.”
According to police reports, the crash occurred when the vehicle carrying the two war veterans veered off the road and overturned along the Gweru-Kwekwe highway. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause, but early indications point to mechanical failure. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has since reiterated its call for motorists to regularly service their vehicles and exercise caution on the country’s roads.
The deaths of Pelile and Nhondova bring to the fore the often unacknowledged sacrifices made by war veterans long after the liberation struggle. Many continue to serve in roles that go beyond politics — from farming and local governance to education, community building, and reconciliation efforts.
Cde Abias Pelile was widely known for his post-war role in community development initiatives, particularly in rural infrastructure projects. He was also involved in youth empowerment programmes and was a regular speaker at local events commemorating the country’s independence and heroes’ holidays.
Cde Solomon Nhondova, meanwhile, was celebrated for his involvement in veterans’ welfare advocacy. He worked closely with various stakeholders to ensure that former freedom fighters received recognition, support, and healthcare services.
Their joint burial marks not only the end of their physical journey but also a symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation of Zimbabweans. Speaker after speaker at the graveside challenged young people to carry forward the ideals of unity, sacrifice, and national pride that defined the liberation war heroes.
As the national flag flew at half-mast and the haunting sound of the last post echoed across the Provincial Heroes Acre, mourners stood in solemn silence, reflecting on lives lived with purpose and commitment. The legacy of Cde Abias Pelile and Cde Solomon Nhondova will undoubtedly live on — not just in history books, but in the lives of those they inspired and the communities they helped shape.
Their final resting place among other heroes now serves as a testament to their patriotism and a reminder of the high price paid for Zimbabwe’s freedom.
Source- ZimEye
