Brig-Gen (Rtd) Tshuma dies

Source: Brig-Gen (Rtd) Tshuma dies – herald

Theseus Mauruki Shambare

Herald Correspondent

THE Zimbabwe National Army has announced the death of Brigadier-General (Retired) Donald Silundi Tshuma, a senior former military officer and liberation war veteran whose Chimurenga name was Henry Silundi.

He was 71.

Brig-Gen Tshuma died on May 15, 2026, at his residence in Nkulumane 12 in Bulawayo, according to a statement by Army Headquarters through the Directorate of Army Public Relations.

Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Hlengiwe Dube, said the Commander Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, had expressed deep sadness over the passing on of the decorated officer.

“The Commander Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, is saddened to announce the untimely death of Brigadier General (Retired) Donald Silundi Tshuma,” said Col Dube.

“Brigadier-General (Retired) Donald Silundi Tshuma, whose Chimurenga name was ‘Henry Silundi’, passed away on May 15, 2026 at his residential home at 14010 Nkulumane 12, Bulawayo,” she said.

Brigadier-General Tshuma is remembered as one of the senior cadres who contributed to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle before serving in the country’s armed forces after Independence.

During and after the liberation war, many cadres who fought for the country’s independence went on to form the backbone of the Zimbabwe National Army, playing key roles in national defence, security and institution building.

Although the army did not immediately release details of his liberation war operations and military career history, colleagues and liberation war circles described him as a disciplined cadre who dedicated many years to serving the country.

His death comes at a time when the nation continues to honour veterans of the liberation struggle whose contributions helped secure Zimbabwe’s Independence in 1980.

Mourners have started gathering at the Tshuma family home in Nkulumane, Bulawayo, following news of his passing.

Col Dube said details regarding funeral and burial arrangements would be announced in due course.

“More details on funeral arrangements to be advised in due course,” she said.