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GUTU – It was a poignant send-off as hundreds of mourners from all walks of life converged at the Mutimba homestead in Makonese village, Bhasera, Gutu, to pay their last respects to Sekuru Rakinos Mutimba, a man whose life was defined by unwavering service to his country and community.
The 82-year-old patriarch, father of Media Centre Masvingo, Editor, Masvingo United Residents and Rate Payers Spokesperson (MURRA), and former Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) Vice President, Godfrey Mutimba, passed away after a short illness.
The huge crowd that gathered at the funeral was a powerful testament to the breadth of Mutimba’s influence.
Politicians from various political parties stood shoulder to shoulder with members of civil society and top business leaders from the province, united in grief and gratitude.
Speaker after speaker took to the podium, sharing touching stories of how the late Mutimba helped transform the village of Makonese into the thriving community it is today.
Davison Mutimba, his young brother, said the family has lost a great forerunner.
“He was the eldest son in our family and led us well; we sought guidance and direction from him, and the gap he has left will be very difficult to fill,” said the young brother.
Sabhuku Makonese Boas K. Gonese, who is also the father of the late Sekuru Mutimba, said the village will always remember him for his good deeds.
“The crowd here to bid farewell to him is a clear testimony of the good deeds my son had; he was a good leader who commanded respect and respected his elders as well; hence, we have lost an icon,” said Gonese.
His children also echoed the same sentiments, saying he was also a great disciplinarian who ensured order in the family.
“He was a visionary leader,” said the local Zanu PF ward 39 councilor, Ndinatsei Madzadzure
“His farming skills shaped this village. As a tribute, a borehole will be installed in his village to honor his immense contributions to our farming activities,” she said.
Senator Godfrey Madzikanda also praised him for being an exemplary elder and leader in their community.
“As his uncle, we relied on him in this community for advice and direction as an elder, and now that the lord has decided to call him, we pray that those who come after him fit well in his shoes,” said Senator Madzikanda.
Sekuru Mutimba’s journey of service began long before his retirement.
He dedicated 30 years to the Air Force of Zimbabwe, serving with distinction until his retirement in 1994 as a retired Warrant Officer Class 1.
Even after hanging up his uniform, he never stopped serving.
He remained an active farmer, a community leader, and a government employee, always willing to lend a hand.
His strict approach to discipline earned him the affectionate nickname “DC,” short for Disciplinary Committee.
Beyond his civil duties, Mutimba was a man of deep faith and culture. He served as Secretary for the Methodist Church Bhasera circuit in Gutu, and was a pioneer of the local Makonese Burial Society.
He also held the traditional title of Jinda for the Chingombe chieftainship, a role he performed with great reverence.
Born the second of seven children, Sekuru Mutimba is survived by his wife, Mbuya Mutimba, five children, and ten grandchildren.
Community members said Sekuru Mutimba leaves behind a legacy of dedication, discipline, and community spirit that will not soon be forgotten.
