By Margaret Kamba
The late National Heroine Cde Grace Tsitsi Jadagu was confered with the prestigious status this week by the Politburo of the ruling ZANU PF Party. Described by many as a dedicated and selfless cadre, an inquiry into her family reveals that the National Heroine was more than just a mother.
Her daughters, daughter-in-law, and only son share their insight into this extraordinary woman.
Patricia, the eldest, says, "I want to thank the Lord for the fruitful 81 years that he gave my mother. She was a pillar of strength for me and my children during the time that I lost my husband. She made sure that we had all that we needed for a comfortable life. One thing that I will always remember about my mother was her love for education. She made sure that my siblings and I had the best education possible," she said.
"My mother had a kind heart. She used to support members of her extended family both from the Jadagus and the Mangwendes. She would do everything possible to make sure that the two families were taken good care of. She also used to support members of the Chitungwiza community where she lived. She was always there for anyone who needed her help. I will miss my mother so much. May her soul be in eternal peace."
Rejoice, the third born said, "I would like to celebrate the life of my mother, Grace Tsitsi Jadagu. She was a hardworking, faithful, and caring mother. Education was a priority for all her children. She was selfless and ready to help family and friends. She looked out for the less privileged and was willing to bring out the best in everyone. Indeed, she was a hero in my life. May her soul rest in peace."
Blessing the fourth born highlighted that her mother was very kind, caring, and selfless.
"She believed in a spirit of excellence, and she instilled in me that if I can't give anything my very best, then it's better not to do it at all. She valued education and made sure that my six siblings and I received the best education. My mum will always be my hero, and today I would like to celebrate the life of a hero with you all. Rest in peace, mum."
Her daughter-in-law Dr Gladys Jadagu showered praises about her, too.
"A phenomenal woman that I got to know for many years. I didn't know her as a mother-in-law, but I knew her as a mother. She took me into the family as a daughter, and she kept me under her wings, directing me and giving me wisdom and also supporting me in all that I did. I am where I am with my husband today because of her love, her care, and her wisdom," she said.
"She was a very wise person who taught me what integrity means. She stood by her words."
She reminisced of the time when she spoke with her mother-in-law about how far she had gone with her education as she valued it. She wanted her to be as educated as her own children.
"She insisted that wherever we were, we needed to be flying the Zimbabwe flag high."
Ngoni her only son said her mum was everything to him.
"In so many ways to me, my mum was larger than life. Without a doubt she played a dominant role in my upbringing and my development. I think I embody some of the qualities she had. She was a straight shooter. She would tell you what she thought whether or not it was pleasing to you. She was transparent, truthful and frank. She believed in fosters relationships. She was a giving person and a passionate Christian."