MILLICENT HUNGWE
The funeral parade of the late distinguished freedom fighter, Colonel (Retired) Claudius William Makova, who passed away on the morning of 06 July 2025 at his farm in Mkwasine, Chiredzi was held at 4 Brigade today.
Makova who was known by his Chimurenga as Tichatora Muchadura died at 76.
On the parade, Chief of Staff Quartermaster, Major General Simon Maseko said that Makova was born in Mandava Village, Bikita District under Chief Ziki and Headman Mandava.
Maseko said Makova’s life was defined by unwavering patriotism, military excellence, and unparalled service to Zimbabwe.
In 1977, he joined the ZANLA forces in Mozambique, taking on the Chimurenga name Tichaitora Muchadura.
After completing initial military training in Tanzania, he was appointed an instructor at the famous Nachingweya Training Camp and later served in Tete Province in the same capacity until 1979.
“That same year, he was selected for advanced military training in Romania, which he successfully completed in 1982.
“Upon independence, Colonel Makova was attested into the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) on 01 August 1982 as a Private, through commitment and skill, he swiftly rose through the ranks, commissioned as a Lieutenant in 1983, promoted to Captain in 1984, Major in 1990, Lieutenant Colonel in 1994, and ultimately Colonel in 1995, the year he retired,” said Major General Maseko.
He added that the late held various critical positions within the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, particularly in the Public Relations Department, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the image and communication strategies of the military.
His roles included, Senior Research Officer (1982–1986), Public Relations Officer – HQ 1 Infantry Brigade (1986–1987), Acting Deputy Director Public Relations (1987–1988), Officer Commanding Shows and Displays (1989–1992), Deputy Director Public Relations (1993–1994) and Director Public Relations (1994 – 01 May 1995)
“Colonel Makova was not only a seasoned soldier but also an accomplished scholar, he earned a BSc Honours Degree in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe and held several professional qualifications, including, Higher Stage Certificates in Public Relations and Marketing, Intermediate Diplomas in Journalism and Personnel Management, he also completed notable military training programs such as the Officers Foundation Course and the Administration Officer’s Course.
General Maseko noted that, “For his exemplary service and dedication, he was decorated with the following honours, Liberation Medal, Independence Medal, 10 Years’ Service Medal, Long and Exemplary Service Medal and Mozambique Campaign Medal.
“Colonel Makova embodied the virtues of discipline, loyalty, humility, and patriotism, his contributions to the liberation of Zimbabwe and the development of the Zimbabwe National Army remain a beacon of inspiration to generations of officers and citizens alike.
“His life was a testament to the indomitable spirit of Zimbabwe’s liberation generation men and women who sacrificed everything to see the country”.
His first son, Oliver Makova, told the press that the burial will take place tomorrow at his farm in Mkwasine and that his father was accorded provincial hero status.
