Sikhulekelani Moyo-Bulawayo Bureau
JOINING hundreds of mourners in Bulawayo’s Old Pumula suburb, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga yesterday bid farewell to his brother-in-law, Mondliwethu Nyathi, describing him as a man who lived a life anchored in faith and peace.
Mr Nyathi, born on 24 July 1984, died on September 23 at Mpilo Central Hospital.
He was buried yesterday at Umvutshwa Cemetery.
Speaking during the funeral service, VP Chiwenga said the family had gathered not only to mourn, but to celebrate a life that touched many.
“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I join you, together with my family, in mourning the passing of our beloved Mondliwethu Nyathi, who departed this life on 23 September 2026,” he said.
“As a family, we gather today not only to mourn the loss of a loved one, but also to celebrate the life of a man whose journey, faith and character touched the lives of those around him.
“We didn’t just lose a brother-in-law, but a brother in every sense that mattered.”
Beyond academic aspirations and life’s disappointments, VP Chiwenga said what defined Mr Nyathi was his faith in God.
“He distinguished himself as a capable young man who possessed the intellectual ability and determination to pursue his dreams, as has been clearly captured by family members and his obituary.
“Beyond academic aspirations and life’s disappointments, what defined Mondli most profoundly was his faith in God. He loved God with all his heart. His life was anchored in prayer, and he found great joy and comfort in worship.
“He was a man of peace, and those who knew him will remember the calmness, humility and spirit of peace that he brought into the lives of others,” said VP Chiwenga.
Quoting 2 Timothy 4:7, which reads: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”, VP Chiwenga said these words remind humanity that a meaningful life is not measured only by the milestones one achieves, but also by the faith one keeps, the lives one touches and the love one leaves behind.
He extended condolences to the Nyathi and Dube families.
“The loss of Mondli is, therefore, deeply felt by the Nyathi and Dube families, and indeed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As a family, we share in your grief and stand with you during this difficult period,” said VP Chiwenga.
“The pain of losing a loved one cannot easily be expressed in words, and no words can fully fill the void that his passing has created.
“However, in the midst of our sorrow, let us draw strength from the life he lived, the faith he cherished, the peace he embodied, his warmth, humility, wise counsel and the memories he leaves with us”.
“May Mondliwethu’s soul rest in eternal peace. May God bless and comfort the Nyathi and Dube families.”
Earlier in an interview at the family home at C6421 Old Pumula, where mourners had gathered since last week, VP Chiwenga called on Zimbabweans to remain united as one family in times of both joy and sorrow.
The VP was accompanied by his wife, Dr Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga.
In an emotional tribute, she described her late brother as the most intelligent in the family.
“Mondli was the most intelligent in the family; unfortunately, due to his condition, he couldn’t continue with school.
“Even if it’s painful to lose one of our own, we should have hope, knowing that everything has its own time. There is time to plant and time to harvest, time to be happy and time to cry.
“As a family, we don’t question God’s time because He knows what He is doing. We have to cry with hope that Mondli worshipped his God and we hope that he will be looking upon us from the heavens. Mondli used to love his family.
“I know you are also not well, but if there is anything troubling you, me and my husband are there to support you. Don’t struggle alone.”
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, who attended the service called urged mourners to stand still and keep on praying.
“Some fail to hold on to the Lord, which tend to break their hearts. I call upon the family, neighbours and everyone to keep holding on.
“The Vice President, who is also the son-in-law of this bereaved family is here with us, to comfort the Nyathi and the Dube family, the community and the whole of Bulawayo.”
After the funeral service, VP Chiwenga accompanied the family, and all the mourners to uMvutshwa Cemetery where Mr Nyathi was laid to rest.
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