The Zimbabwean military is mourning the loss of another distinguished officer, Air Commodore (Retired) Peter Gedion Sheik Zimondi, who passed away yesterday at the age of 65 following a road traffic accident near Chitungwiza’s Zororo cemetery.
The accident saw his so badly injured that he reportedly got admitted to a hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU) where he has been in a comma since then.
The news of his passing comes as a heavy blow to the Air Force of Zimbabwe, following a string of recent losses within the military ranks.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Air Commodore Zimondi, who was involved in a road traffic accident and sustained severe injuries. He was receiving treatment at a local hospital until his untimely death,” said Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede, Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, in a statement.
Air Marshal Nzvede extended his condolences to the Zimondi family and the Air Force, saying, “May the Lord Almighty provide comfort during this difficult time.”
Air Commodore Zimondi who was the Director-General of Administration in the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ), was a dedicated and distinguished member of the Air Force, who served with honour since joining in 1981 after his training in Nigeria. His passing is a significant loss for the military, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill.
He was Group Captain in the Air Force of Zimbabwe before being promoted to Air Commodore and Director General Administration in February 2018 following the military coup that ousted former president Rober Mugabe. Zimondi was a cousin to the late national hero Air Marshal (Rtd) Perrence Shiri who was one of the senior government officials killed by the deadly Covid 19 virus.
Mourners are currently gathering at Number 7 Croborough Road in Mt Pleasant, Harare, as funeral parade preparations get underway. Details of the date of the funeral will be announced in due course.
This recent tragedy follows the passing of another prominent military figure, Colonel Andrew Kabaira, just a month ago. Colonel Kabaira, a man of immense stature and unwavering dedication, passed away on 21 July morning at the age of 64, after a short illness. He was receiving treatment at the ZNA 2 Referral Hospital, located within the Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in Harare. A month before his death, Colonel Kaibaira had been reshuffled from his position as Commander Harare District, a role he held with distinction.
The Zimbabwe National Army has also recently been mourning the loss of Brigadier-General (Retired) Michael Chaminuka, who passed away last month after a 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 was laid to rest last month at the National Heroes Acre.
The recent string of deaths within the Zimbabwean military has cast a pall over the nation, with many wondering why an angel of death is hovering over these decorated military strongmen.
Here are some of the security cluster senior officials who have died recently:
2 Feb – Colonel Kenny Ridzai Mabuya (Retired born 12 Jan 1952 Intelligence and most senior ZANU-PF war veteran)
29 April – Shadreck Vezha ( Accident Born 10 August 1961 Intelliegence)
16 April Nash Nyasha Dzimiri ( Intelligence Short illness June 24 1958)
18 April Tsitsi Grace Jadagu ( 11 March 1943 Short illness)
4 May Ezekiel Tobais Chaunoita ( Intelligence Long illness)
28 June – Romeo Donald Mutsvunguma (4 March 1957
19 July Brigadier General – Michael Chaminuka
5 August makheti Ndebele
20 August Elasto Madzingira
4 September – Brigadier General – Shadreck Dingaan Ndabambi ( Security Collapsed )
13 September – Peter Zimondi ( Road Accident
