By Dr. Munyaradzi Chidarikire
(The writer of this article is related to Mr Chigerwe and writes in his own personal capacity)
In a solemn gathering that brought together thousands of mourners from Gutu South and beyond, President Nelson Chamisa paid tribute to the late Mr. Jestias Tungamirai Chigerwe, a renowned educationist and one of the longest-serving school heads in Gutu South on 31st March 2024. President Chamisa, who happens to be a neighbor of Mr. Chigerwe in Gutu South, delivered a heartfelt speech during the burial ceremony held on Easter Sunday.
The burial of Mr. Chigerwe was attended by prominent politicians, church members, business owners, Ministry of Education officials, former and current Gutu South teachers, school heads, Teachers’ Unions Representatives, students, as well as village heads, among others. Mr. Chigerwe passed away on the 29th of March 2024 and was laid to rest on the 31st of March 2024 at his rural home in Ward 23, Chiwara, Gutu South. He was 80 years old. Mr. Chigerwe’s late wife, fondly known as “Sinyerere” for her quiet and hardworking nature, was a prominent nurse at Chitando clinic. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5kPp2KGGGQkePy4t1q
The couple has six children: Tanaka, Muchayemura, Anmos, Tongoona, Tinavo, and Ellen. All of their children have attained diplomas and degrees and are currently holding esteemed positions in various organizations. Dr. Chidarikire, the writer of this article, had the privilege of residing with Mr. Chigerwe’s children while they pursued their studies at university.
Mr. Chigerwe was not only a close friend of President Chamisa’s father, but he was also highly regarded by the President himself. In a rally held at Maungwa business center prior to the 2023 harmonized elections, President Chamisa publicly acknowledged Mr. Chigerwe’s exceptional contributions as an educationist. Mr. Chigerwe even attended this rally with President Chamisa’s father.
During the burial ceremony, President Chamisa described Mr. Chigerwe as a strict disciplinarian, dedicated to the growth and development of his students. He emphasized that Gutu South had lost a visionary leader and a significant community figure.
Mr. Chigerwe began his teaching career before Zimbabwe gained independence, working at Chitenderano Primary School. He later pursued a degree in Education and was subsequently promoted to the position of headmaster at Rumhizha Secondary School in Ward 37, Gutu South. According to Alderman and Councillor Tungamhare of Ward 37, who had the opportunity to work closely with Mr. Chigerwe, the late educationist played a pivotal role in transforming Rumhizha Secondary School into one of the best schools in Gutu South, known for its outstanding infrastructure and quality of education.
Under Mr. Chigerwe’s leadership, several prominent political leaders were nurtured, including Gutu South Member of Parliament Pupurai Togarepi, former Masvingo Urban Member of Parliament Honorable Jacob Nyokanhete (who is related to Mr. Chigerwe), and Alderman and Councillor Tangemhare, who currently holds the record for being the longest-serving opposition councillor in Gutu South since independence.
Honorable Nyokanhete, a chartered accountant and businessman who hails from Ward 37, Gutu South and now owns businesses in Harare expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of Mr. Chigerwe, describing him as a father, mentor, and exceptional educationist. He further commended Mr. Chigerwe for his unwavering dedication to teaching and educating others, and wished his soul eternal peace.
Furthermore, in his role as a school head, Mr. Chigerwe has nurtured and mentored several notable individuals who have excelled in their respective fields. One such individual is Sharon Hofisi, a distinguished human rights lawyer renowned for her exceptional work. Additionally, Mr. Chigerwe has also played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of prominent business figures like Danford Zimuto, who has established himself in the United Kingdom. Another standout individual is Mrs. Jane Nyokanhete, a highly skilled chartered accountant. These are just a few examples of the many accomplished professionals who have benefited from Mr. Chigerwe’s guidance and support.
In addition to his contributions in education, Mr. Chigerwe was also a skilled farmer and renowned hunter. He often went on hunting trips with his late friend Mr. Jabson Zimuto, who was the father of prominent Britain-based businessman Mr. Danford Zimuto.
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Politically, Mr. Chigerwe was a staunch supporter of Advocate President Chamisa’s party, the MDC Alliance. He served as the secretary of education for Masvingo Province under President Chamisa’s leadership. During the reign of the late former President Robert Mugabe, Mr. Chigerwe faced persecution from ZANU-PF members who accused him of supporting the late President Morgan Tsvangirai. In Gutu South, several teachers were even killed for their support of opposition parties. Nonetheless, Mr. Chigerwe remained steadfast in his political convictions.
The funeral of Mr. Chigerwe drew mourners from across the political spectrum, demonstrating the widespread influence he had. Notable attendees included former Mbare Member of Parliament and President Chamisa’s younger brother, Honorable Starmen Gange Chamisa; pro-Chamisa Masvingo Senator Maggie Chakabuda; pro-Chamisa Masvingo Proportional Representative ParliamentarianHonorable Matara; pro-Chamisa Masvingo Senator Godfrey Madzikanda; pro-Chamisa Gutu South Ward 37 Councillor Elderman Tangemhare; pro-Chamisa Masvingo Urban Ward 9 Councillor Benard Muchokwa; Evans Chamisa; Mr. Ziki; Mai Guvava, Mr Manyanye and ZANU-PF Chipinge Central Member of Parliament Honorable Machigura.
The passing of Mr. Jestias Tungamirai Chigerwe is a significant loss to Gutu South and the education community at large, said Mr Micah Zimuto who is Mr Chigerwe’s former student at Rumhizha Secondary School who attended the burial. President Chamisa’s tribute serves as a testament to Mr. Chigerwe’s unwavering commitment to education and his profound impact on the lives of many, said Pro-Chamisa Masvingo urban member of parliament advocate Martin Mureri. The legacy of this prominent school head will continue to inspire generations to come, as his contributions to education and community development are remembered and celebrated. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
