By Admore Mbonda in Kariba Magunje
MAGUNJE, Kariba — A life of quiet duty and community-minded leadership was celebrated on Saturday in Chidzimamoto Ward 11, Magunje, where family, friends, colleagues, and residents gathered to lay to rest retired Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Potfer Hwenje.
Unlike a ceremony focused only on military tradition, the farewell took on a wider communal character, reflecting how the late soldier was remembered not just for his uniformed service, but also for the values he carried into everyday life.
Mourners spoke of a man whose professionalism was matched by humility, and whose interactions with others left a lasting impression.
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces honoured WO2 Hwenje with full military honours, including a 21-gun salute, a formal tribute reserved for distinguished service and sacrifice.
As servicemen and women stood in disciplined formation, the volley of the salute reverberated through the ward, underscoring the respect the nation held for a man whose career was defined by commitment and responsibility.
Delivering remarks during the ceremony Acting Officer Commanding Boat Squadron Regiment, Major Muhlengi Mangwangwa, described the late retired WO2 as a committed professional who served with discipline, dedication, and integrity.
Major Mangwangwa said the late WO2’s conduct reflected the standards expected of Zimbabwe Defence Forces personnel standards that continue to inspire those who serve alongside the memories of veterans.
While the military tributes were observed in solemn silence, the emotional heart of the day came through family and community testimony.
Hwenje’s daughter, Roslyn Hwenje, expressed deep appreciation to the Defence Forces, friends, and the broader community for standing with the family during the mourning period. She said their support brought comfort at a time when words were not enough, and that the presence of many well wishers helped the family endure the loss.
Throughout the burial, residents from different walks of life turned out to pay their respects reinforcing the idea that WO2 Hwenje’s impact extended beyond the barracks.
Community members described him as a figure of guidance and steadiness, someone who treated service as both a responsibility and a calling.
WO2 Hwenje is survived by his wife, several children, and grandchildren.
As the community of Chidzimamoto Ward 11 Magunje marked the end of his earthly journey, tributes made it clear that his legacy would live on through the discipline he demonstrated, the sacrifices he made, and the spirit of service remembered by all who knew him.
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