Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo Dies at 72

"The Commander of the ZNA, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, is saddened to announce the passing of Major General (Retd) Richard Ruwodo," Col Dube said.

Douglas Masveta

July 08, 2026

2 min read

55 views

Former Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) senior officer Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo has died. He was 72.

Ruwodo passed away on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, at Avenues Clinic in Harare.

In a statement, Director of Army Public Relations Colonel Hlengiwe Dube confirmed the death, quoting ZNA Commander Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi as expressing profound sadness over the loss.

"The Commander of the ZNA, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, is saddened to announce the passing of Major General (Retd) Richard Ruwodo," Col Dube said.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Ruwodo, and three children. Mourners are currently gathered at House Number 92, Folyjon Crescent, Glen Lorne, Harare. Col Dube added that burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

A highly decorated officer, Maj Gen (Retd) Ruwodo dedicated decades of service to the country's defence forces. He was widely recognised for his advocacy on behalf of liberation war fighters, having frequently testified before Parliament to champion improved pensions and economic opportunities for veterans.

He attained the rank of Brigadier General before being promoted to Major General upon his retirement from active service in August 2008.

Following his military career, Ruwodo served as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence and War Veterans' Affairs, and later as Chief Director and Director for War Veterans' Affairs. He also chaired and served on various boards and funds, including the board of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA), where he was tasked with spearheading economic projects and securing concessions for veterans.

Join our WhatsApp Channel

Be part of a growing community that relies on Dagmedia News for fast, accurate, and credible updates from across Zimbabwe and beyond.

We also offer: Graphic Design, Photography, Web Design, Videography, Concept Development, Idea Generation & Incubation, and Advertising Services.

Click here to subscribe: Follow us on WhatsApp