The late former Vice President of Zimbabwe, Phelekezela Mphoko, has been declared a National Hero by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. However, he will not be buried at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, marking a departure from tradition. Instead, Mphoko will be laid to rest at his farm in Douglasdale, Bulawayo, Plot Number 19, in accordance with his personal wishes.

Mphoko’s widow, Laurinda Mphoko, announced the burial arrangements, expressing gratitude to the government for honoring her husband’s request. “On behalf of the Mphoko family, I, Mrs. Laurinda Mphoko, wish to confirm that my late husband, former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, will be laid to rest at his home in Bulawayo, at Douglasdale, Plot Number 19,” she stated.

The former Vice President passed away in Dubai while returning from India, where he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness. His wife was by his side during his final moments. Mphoko’s death marks a historic first, as he is the only former Zimbabwean Vice President to pass away after leaving office.

Mphoko had a distinguished career in Zimbabwean politics, serving as Vice President from 2014 to 2017 under President Robert Mugabe. He also held prominent diplomatic posts as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Russia, Botswana, and South Africa. A significant figure in the liberation struggle and post-independence governance, Mphoko leaves behind a legacy that is both impactful and complex, reflecting his pivotal role in shaping Zimbabwe’s history.