Tinotenda Hove – Rtd Colonel Claudious Makova, a respected figure within the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) and widely credited for transforming the military’s public image during the 1990s, has died. He passed away on Sunday in Chiredzi, his family confirmed.

The news of his death was announced by his son, Oscar Makova, who said, “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of our father. He served his country with pride and integrity.”

Col Makova earned national recognition for his work in military public relations, especially during a period when the ZNA faced serious image challenges. In the aftermath of several disciplinary scandals and strained civil-military relations, it was Makova who stepped in to revamp the army’s reputation. Through media engagement, community outreach programmes, and a disciplined approach to communication, he succeeded in rebranding the force as a more professional and people-centered institution.

“He turned around the image of the ZNA from one associated with fear and disorder to one that was trusted and respected by ordinary citizens,” said a former colleague who worked with Makova during his time at Army Headquarters.

Makova’s strategic communication efforts played a pivotal role in building bridges between the army and civilians, at a time when Zimbabwe was transitioning from the post-liberation era into a new national identity. Many credit him with laying the groundwork for what became a more restrained and publicly accountable military in the late 1990s.

Beyond his military career, Makova remained active in community work in his home region of Chiredzi, where he retired. His death has been met with an outpouring of condolences from former military colleagues, civil society actors, and citizens who still remember his efforts to humanise the face of the uniformed services.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.