CONDOLENCE MESSAGE
The dark cloud upon us has only deepened, as we grapple with the sad news of the death of Gogo Jane Gowo, a ZAPU stalwart who was based in Zvimba, Mashonaland West. Gogo Gowo, who came into prominence last year following a TV interview with veteran journalist Zenzele Ndebele, was a former ZAPU Central Committee member. During the liberation struggle, she and her husband, the late Jack Musokeri Gowo, risked life and limb moving weapons to the frontlines. They also mobilized for ZAPU and recruited members – outlawed and clandestine activities – for which they were both imprisoned.
We were looking forward to seeking out and visit our Heroine when we tour the Northern Region soon; in my mind that was top on the agenda, but as usual, God is always ahead of us and does what He has to do. We have lost another gallant daughter of the soil, who in her final days bravely came out to narrate her dedication to ZAPU, and her unsung contribution to the armed liberation struggle. She was the epitome of our patriotic mothers and sisters who showed courage when cowardice was easier and of ten-times more rewarding. Her story deflates efforts by revisionists who thrive in downplaying the role of women during the struggle for our country’s independence.
My condolences go to the Gowo family, ZPRA veterans, the ZAPU family and the nation as a whole. Yesterday was hard on all of us and today is not any easier. We mourn the loss of our Heroine with the unfinished business of establishing true freedom for Zimbabweans still needing us to continue the struggle. As threats to strip us of our common suffrage gravitate towards becoming tragic reality, we are inspired by Gogo Gowo’s courage to stand our ground in defense of the National Constitution. We shall honor her legacy by fighting tooth and nail against the enactment of CAB 3 as a law in our land. May she rest in peace with all those who fought for our liberation.
Issued by: Cde Michael Sibangilizwe Nkomo, ZAPU President