Zimbabweans were recently offered an in-depth look into the military and nation-building accomplishments of Vice President Retired General Constantino Chiwenga during a presentation by Honorable Sekai Holland at the 2019 Nation Building Horasis Conference, held in Cascais, Portugal. Holland’s testimony provided a comprehensive overview of Chiwenga’s extensive career, emphasizing both his leadership in military operations and his enduring contributions to Zimbabwe’s development and regional stability.
During her address, Holland highlighted Chiwenga’s decisive role in international peacekeeping, particularly his participation in the United Nations Operation in Somalia (UNOSOM II) in 1993. She recalled his exceptional leadership during the infamous Battle of Mogadishu, known within military circles as Operation Gothic Serpent, in which U.S. forces were embroiled in intense combat. Holland credited Chiwenga’s tactical acumen and timely interventions with saving the lives of several American soldiers, demonstrating not only his military skill but also his capacity to operate effectively under extreme pressure.
“This was a man who combined courage with strategic foresight,” Holland remarked. “His actions in Mogadishu exemplify the kind of disciplined, decisive leadership that is rare on any battlefield. Zimbabweans, we have a seasoned nation builder among us.” Her words painted Chiwenga as a figure whose impact extends far beyond conventional military duties, situating him as an instrumental contributor to both international peacekeeping efforts and national security.
Beyond his Somalia engagement, Holland drew attention to Chiwenga’s contributions in other regional contexts, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia. In these assignments, he played a pivotal role in military operations that reinforced regional stability and supported broader nation-building efforts. By coordinating complex strategies and fostering cooperation among regional forces, Chiwenga helped ensure that military interventions aligned with longer-term development objectives. Holland emphasized that his work in these countries was not solely about combat operations but about laying foundations for enduring governance structures, security frameworks, and local development initiatives.
Sekai Holland Applauds Chiwenga’s Leadership
Holland further underscored Chiwenga’s unwavering dedication to Zimbabwe’s domestic agenda. She highlighted his leadership in promoting integrity and good governance, calling on citizens to support his ongoing initiatives against corruption. “Fighting graft is not just a moral imperative—it is essential for creating an inclusive economy that serves the majority rather than a privileged few,” she stated. Holland positioned Chiwenga as a central figure in efforts to curb corruption, portraying him as a leader committed to building systems that prioritize national interest and economic fairness.
Her testimony also offered a broader perspective on Chiwenga’s multifaceted career, portraying him as a leader whose influence spans military, political, and social spheres. Holland emphasized that his extensive experience equips him with a rare combination of strategic insight and practical problem-solving capabilities, making him a key actor in Zimbabwe’s nation-building efforts. She highlighted that his commitment extends beyond his official duties to mentoring younger leaders, promoting professionalism within the armed forces, and contributing to policies that enhance national resilience.
Importantly, Holland’s address stressed the relevance of Chiwenga’s experiences to Zimbabweans today. She framed him as a role model for leadership, discipline, and service, urging citizens to recognize the value of his contributions and to actively support initiatives that strengthen national cohesion and development. Through her testimony, Chiwenga emerged not just as a military strategist but as a dedicated public servant whose vision encompasses both national security and socio-economic advancement.
In sum, Hon. Sekai Holland’s presentation at the Horasis Conference provided a rich and nuanced account of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s career and achievements. From his decisive interventions in Somalia to his stabilizing roles in the DRC and Zambia, and his ongoing anti-corruption and nation-building efforts within Zimbabwe, Chiwenga’s legacy is portrayed as one of courage, competence, and steadfast dedication to public service. Holland’s testimony positions him as a figure whose experience and leadership continue to shape both Zimbabwe’s domestic policies and its standing in the broader Southern African region.
For Zimbabweans, her words serve as a reminder of the critical importance of supporting leaders committed to integrity, regional stability, and nation-building. Chiwenga’s record exemplifies the impact that disciplined, visionary leadership can have on a country’s security, governance, and socio-economic development. In highlighting these achievements, Holland not only celebrated Chiwenga’s past contributions but also called on citizens to engage actively in supporting his ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more inclusive Zimbabwe.
Source- Bulawayo24
