The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) is mourning the loss of one of its distinguished officers, Colonel Andrew Kabaira, whose passing has cast a pall over the military community and beyond. The announcement of his untimely death, made yesterday by the Commander of the ZNA, Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, sent a wave of sadness through the nation.
Colonel Kabaira, a man of immense stature and unwavering dedication, passed away yesterday morning at the age of 64, after a brief illness. He was receiving treatment at the ZNA 2 Referral Hospital, located within the Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in Harare.
“The Commander Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant-General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe is deeply saddened to announce the untimely death of a dedicated and loyal senior officer, Colonel Andrew Kabaira, who passed away at ZNA 2 Referral hospital Josiah Magama Tongogara barracks in Harare today (yesterday),” said ZNA director Public Relations, Colonel Alphios Makotore, his voice heavy with grief.
Colonel Kabaira’s passing is a profound loss not only for the ZNA but also for his family. He is survived by his wife and seven children, who are now left to navigate the difficult path of grief and remembrance.
As news of his passing spread, mourners began gathering at his residence, House Number 2354, Ngama Drive, Bluff Hill, Harare, to pay their respects. The outpouring of grief and the solemn atmosphere at his home are a testament to the deep respect and affection he commanded.
Details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be released in due course, providing an opportunity for those who knew and admired Colonel Kabaira to come together and celebrate his life and legacy.
His death comes just a month after he was reshuffled from his position as Commander Harare District, a role he held with distinction. Last month (in June), he was replaced by Colonel Richard Mapanda, who now assumes the mantle of leadership for the Harare District.
Colonel Kabaira’s passing comes just a week after another military figure, Brigadier-General (Retired) Michael Chaminuka, succumbed to a very short illness. Chaminuka, a man who played a significant role during the events that led to the removal of former president Robert Mugabe while serving as General Constantine Chiwenga’s personal assistant, was declared a national hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and will be laid to rest today at the National Heroes Acre.
The passing of these two distinguished military figures, in such close proximity, has left a profound sense of loss within the nation.
