The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) has raised concern over increasing deaths among ex-combatants. The association links these deaths to rising poverty and continued neglect.
Zimbabwe has lost many war veterans in recent years. These include serving and retired army generals.
Some played key roles in removing former President Robert Mugabe in November 2017.
Leaders Call for Urgent Action
Meanwhile, ZANU PF national secretary for war veterans Douglas Mahiya addressed a recent gathering. The event celebrated Paul Tungwarara’s elevation to the ZANU PF central committee. Mahiya described the growing deaths among former fighters as alarming.
“I am worried about the rate at which we war veterans are dying. This is alarming and calls for urgent intervention,” said Mahiya.
Welfare Concerns and Government Silence
In addition, ZNLWVA secretary-general Sam Parirenyatwa highlighted serious welfare concerns. He said attempts to engage the government have largely failed.
“We are greatly concerned. It looks like the nation is turning a blind eye to the medical predicament of the men and women who brought about the independence that the nation so much cherishes. There is no funding for medication from the Treasury to the ministry responsible for veterans’ affairs. We have tried to engage the government, but no one seems to be listening. Veterans are dying at home without medical support. The nation has forsaken its gallant fighters.”
Furthermore, Parirenyatwa explained that many veterans suffer from untreated post-traumatic stress disorder.
He added that poverty and social neglect worsen their condition.
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