ACTING President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga, has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Mrs Sikhubekiso Mangena, widow of the late National Hero and ZIPRA Commander, Cde Rodgers Alfred Nikita
ACTING President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga, has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Mrs Sikhubekiso Mangena, widow of the late National Hero and ZIPRA Commander, Cde Rodgers Alfred Nikita Mangena.
Mrs Mangena passed away on May 11 at her Manningdale residence in Bulawayo after succumbing to an asthma-related illness.
She was 69.
In an official condolence message released by the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Chiwenga described the late Mrs Mangena as a symbol of courage, resilience, and sacrifice, who stood steadfastly behind her husband during Zimbabwe’s protracted liberation struggle.
Born Sikhubekiso Mabeya on March 15, 1956, Mrs Mangena was among a generation of women whose contributions to the liberation of Zimbabwe, though often unheralded, were vital.
Following her husband’s assassination in a Rhodesian-planted landmine explosion near Kabanga Mission in Zambia in 1978, Mrs Mangena was left to raise their two young children, Lotshe and Leila, while in exile.
“She belonged to a rare breed of brave women. Despite losing her husband under brutal circumstances, she continued to support the liberation movement with unshaken resolve,” the Acting President said.
Mrs Mangena contributed significantly to the war effort through resource mobilisation, logistical support for fighters, and medical assistance for the wounded.
The late Mrs Mangena is survived by her son Lotshe, and nine grandchildren.
Her daughter Leila sadly passed away a few years ago.
