Zimbabwe to honor Edward Raradza with national burial
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President Mnangagwa will preside over the burial of Edward Raradza today at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Raradza, who died last week at age 79, earned the title of national hero for his work in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and economic development. His body was transported to his farm in Mashonaland Central Province before returning to Harare, where it lay in state.
The government is organising buses from across Zimbabwe to transport mourners, especially those from Raradza’s home region of Muzarabani, to the burial. Raradza was a prominent figure in Zimbabwean politics and business, serving as vice chairperson of the Zimbabwe Farmers’ Union and as a Member of Parliament. He advocated for tobacco farmers, lobbying for fairer prices and access to resources.
Raradza also played a role in Zimbabwe’s international relations, supporting the “Look East Policy” to counter Western sanctions and securing early funding from China. Beyond agriculture and politics, Raradza was a businessman who founded a coal mining company and a tobacco auction company, and he was also a leader within the African Apostolic Church, supporting the church and local communities. He leaves behind his wife, eleven children, and several grandchildren.
