Veteran Liberation Hero and Senior Citizens Champion Nelson Sigauke Laid to Rest

By Evans Jona

MUTARE — Manicaland on Thursday bid farewell to liberation hero and community stalwart Nelson Sigauke, who was laid to rest at the Manicaland Provincial Heroes Acre amid an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from family, friends, and officials.

Sigauke, 80, tragically died on Monday afternoon after he was struck by a vehicle along Robert Mugabe Road while walking towards the city centre. The unidentified motorist, according to Manicaland police, fled the scene after the incident.

Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the details of the accident.

“The now-deceased was walking along Robert Mugabe Road towards the CBD at around 2:40 pm. As he approached the Robert Mugabe and Simon Mazorodze intersection, an unknown motorist driving towards Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital hit him while overtaking from the left and fled the scene,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.

He indicated that Sigauke was rushed to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital by a well-wisher but sadly succumbed to his injuries on admission. He had sustained a fractured left leg and died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

A sombre atmosphere gripped the Manicaland Provincial Heroes Acre as mourners gathered to pay their final respects to the liberation hero, marathon enthusiast, and lifelong community servant.

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, in a speech read on his behalf by Director Joseph Mashingaidze, described Sigauke as a beacon of resilience, courage, and unwavering patriotism.

“His was a life of sacrifice — first for the liberation of Zimbabwe and then for the welfare of his fellow citizens long after independence. His death, under such tragic circumstances, is a painful reminder of the need for road safety and responsible driving,” said Advocate Mugadza.

The Minister also appealed to motorists to exercise caution on the country’s roads, lamenting the rising number of fatalities caused by reckless driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and substance abuse.

“As government, we continue to appeal to all motorists to exercise due care at all times so that incidences of this nature are avoided,” he said.

Sigauke, born on February 2, 1945, in Chikenge District under Chief Musikavanhu, joined the liberation struggle in Zambia in the 1960s. After independence, he pursued various correspondence courses and developed a passion for athletics, actively participating in half-marathons and fitness events well into his late seventies.

His last race, the Tanganda Half Marathon, was held just a week before his death. He also took part in the first and second editions of the NetOne Albun Honde Valley 21km Half Marathons in 2023 and 2024.

Zimbabwe Senior Citizens Association (ZSCA) National Chairman Patrick Ndlovu described Sigauke as an invaluable pillar of the association and the elderly community in Manicaland.

“I knew Mr Sigauke from the mid-80s. He was a generous, humble, and committed man. He was our first donor when we started the association, printing hundreds of membership forms and cards at his own cost. He remained committed, attending every event, always wearing his bib with pride,” said Ndlovu.

ZSCA Projects Coordinator Thomas Chimutanda mourned the double tragedy that had recently struck the Sigauke family.
“We are deeply pained. Just a few weeks ago, he was helping his son who had also been run over by a car. To lose him in the same manner is heartbreaking,” said Chimutanda.

His sons, Shepherd and Joe Sigauke, expressed pride in their father’s enduring legacy.

“He was a dedicated father and leader. His devotion to family, athletics, and his fellow elderly was unmatched,” said Shepherd.
Joe added, “He wasn’t just an athlete. He spent his time helping other senior citizens in the community. We’re proud of him.”
The community hailed Sigauke for showing that age should never be a limitation.

“He was an inspiration to his age mates and proof that physical strength and active citizenship can continue well into advanced years,” said Ndlovu.

Sigauke is survived by his wife, eight children, and several grandchildren.

His passing leaves a void in Manicaland’s civic, sporting, and veterans’ circles. As mourners placed flowers and wreaths on his grave, many vowed to honour his memory through continued community service and advocacy for senior citizens’ rights.
May his soul rest in peace.