MILLICENT HUNGWE
The village of Dunira Hungwe in Bvute came alive on December 24th as hundreds gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of Zanu PF Masvingo godfather, Josaya Dunira Hungwe.
The grand event, hosted by his son The Public Service Commission Chairman Dr. Vincent Hungwe, was marked by a spectacular entrance from Zion Christian Church leader, Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi, who arrived in a helicopter, underscoring the importance of the occasion.
Hungwe was born on the 7th of November 1935 in Chivi District Masvingo, his undeniable integrity and wise counsel led to several appointments within the ruling Zanu PF party and government as Governor.
Hungwe notably served as ‘Gavhuna’ for a record 15 years under the first republic.
The ceremony was held in honour of Hungwe’s lifetime of service, wisdom, and loyalty to both family and country, the celebration brought together a number of high-profile dignitaries and government officials.
The ZANU PF Council of Elders was represented by Dr. David Parirenyatwa, while other notable attendees included President of the Pan-African Parliament Chief Fortune Charumbira, The Secretary to Service Commissions, Sibusiso Zembe, Chivi North MP Godfrey Mukungunugwa, Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs Ezra Chadzamira, and Permanent Secretary Dr. Addmore Pazvakavambwa.
The event recognised Hungwe’s significant contributions to Zimbabwe’s political landscape, particularly his unwavering support for President Mnangagwa during the turbulent transition from the Mugabe era to the Second Republic.
Chief Charumbira hailed Hungwe as a fearless leader whose strategic guidance shaped the direction of the country. “We followed his instructions even under pressure from the former president, and we are in the Second Republic because of him,” said Chief Charumbira, calling for such events to include the youth for generational inspiration.
MP Mukungunugwa spoke emotionally about being mentored by Hungwe, stating that his leadership shaped him into the leader he is today.
Minister Chadzamira echoed the same sentiments, describing Hungwe as the foundation of Masvingo Province’s political identity and the province’s Governor from 1990 to 2005.
Bishop Mutendi, who was the guest of honour, delivered a powerful sermon, calling Hungwe a “mighty man” whose influence is felt in both politics and spiritual life.
Dr. Parirenyatwa praised Hungwe’s continued role in national discourse through his position in the Council of Elders, where he consistently contributes meaningful ideas and solutions.
Mercy Hungwe, his daughter, delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, thanking her father for his endless love and guidance across generations.
MP Mukungunugwa also donated 1 000L of beer, buckets to take the left over beer home, a beast, sheep, Chivi North-branded calendars, plates, pencils, and pens to thousands of people who thronged the Hungwe homestead for the grand celebration.
Senator Lovemore Matuke the Minister of State for National Security ended his speech with a heartfelt plea that the celebration become an annual tradition, stating, “This man deserves it.”
Representing Josaya’s brother, the chairperson of Vashandi Housing Cooperative in Masvingo Godhadhi Hungwe, praised his father, who had 29 children. However, only three sons including the birthday boy and one daughter are still alive. He added, “his brother was employed in making babies.”
In his closing remarks, his son, Advocate Musindo Dunira Hungwe, thanked everyone who had contributed to making the celebration a success.
The 90th birthday celebration of Josaya Dunira Hungwe was not just a birthday, it was a tribute to legacy, leadership, and the enduring spirit of service.
