A decorated former senior member of the Zimbabwe National Army, Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo, has died.
He was 72.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo died yesterday at Avenues Clinic in Harare.
In a statement, Director of Army Public Relations Colonel Hlengiwe Dube said the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, was saddened by the death of the retired senior officer.
“The Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, is saddened to announce the untimely death of Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo, which occurred on 7 July 2026 at Avenues Clinic, Harare,” said Col Dube.
She said Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo is survived by his wife, Lois Ruwodo, and three children.
Mourners are gathered at House Number 92, Folyjon Crescent, Glen Lorne, Harare.
“Burial arrangements will be announced in due course,” said Col Dube. Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo was one of the Zimbabwe National Army’s most decorated senior officers, having dedicated decades of service to the country’s defence forces.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Ruwodo played an instrumental role in advocating for the welfare of liberation war fighters, frequently testifying before Parliament in support of better pensions and economic opportunities for veterans.
He attained the rank of Brigadier General before being promoted to Major General upon his retirement in August 2008.
He served as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence and War Veterans’ Affairs, and later as Chief Director and Director for War Veterans’ Affairs.
He chaired or served on various boards and funds, including the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) board, which was tasked with spearheading economic pr