Official Memorial Message by the LEAD President, Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
In Honour of the Late Dr. Joshua Nqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo
July 1, 2025

REMEMBERING A GIANT: FATHER ZIMBABWE, OUR INSPIRATION

Today, we pause as a nation to honour the life, legacy, and indomitable spirit of the late Dr. Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo an unparalleled revolutionary, trade unionist, Pan-Afrikanist, unifier, and founding father of our beloved Zimbabwe.

As a fellow trade unionist who also emerged from the ranks of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ), I draw deep inspiration from his journey. It is from the same dusty platforms and struggles of workers’ rights that both our political consciousnesses were shaped.

Just like him, I found my voice amongst the people, the labourers, the marginalized, and the voiceless fighting for dignity, equity, and justice.

Dr. Nkomo was more than a freedom fighter; he was the embodiment of national unity. He gave his all so Zimbabwe could be born. I, too, have committed my life to the pursuit of freedom not just from colonial rule, but from the chains of economic injustice, political repression, and social exclusion that continue to bind many of our people.

He was a great unifier, working tirelessly to bring together a fractured nation. I, too, believe in unity above all. In a time when Zimbabwe risks being torn apart by divisive politics and selfish leadership, I stand resolute as a daughter of the soil, Mother Zimbabwe calling for unity, dignity, and purpose-driven leadership.

Father Zimbabwe was a Pan-Afrikanist who believed in the full liberation of the African continent from neocolonialism and exploitation. As a proud Pan-Afrikanist, I carry his torch in continuing the unfinished work of continental liberation, integration, and self-reliance. Africa must rise, and Zimbabwe must lead.

Dr. Nkomo taught us to dream beyond our limitations, to resist against all odds, and to lead with compassion, wisdom, and bravery. As the President of LEAD, I reaffirm our party’s resolute commitment to defend and advance the gains of the liberation struggle.

We will not allow the blood of our heroes and heroines to be in vain. We will fight for a Zimbabwe that works for all just as he envisioned.

To the gallant son of the soil, rest in eternal power. Your legacy lives in us. Your vision continues in our struggle, your dream will never die.

Rest well, Father Zimbabwe.
Your daughter, Mother Zimbabwe, shall continue the journey.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
President – Labour Economists and Afrikan Democrats (LEAD)