By Dumisani Ndlovu
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to renowned author and historian Pathisa Nyathi, who passed away on Saturday.
In a heartfelt message, the President expressed his deepest condolences to the Nyathi family, acknowledging the immense contribution Nyathi made to Zimbabwe’s performing arts and national heritage.
“As they grieve over their saddest loss, may they derive ample comfort from the great deeds and accomplishments of the late dear departed, many of which were done in the service of his people and his country. To that end and in his honour, I have directed that the late Pathisa Nyathi be granted a State Assisted funeral. May his dear soul rest in eternal peace,” President Mnangagwa said.
Nyathi was tasked by President Mnangagwa earlier this year to document the Pupu battle against British colonialism and King Lobengula’s final journey. The President praised Nyathi’s commitment to reconstructing Zimbabwe’s national heritage, which had been distorted by colonial narratives.
“I personally felt very proud and overwhelmed by the sheer fervency of his commitment to the reconstruction of our national heritage… Today that hope stands rudely dashed as its proponent and main actor has bowed out of this life after a long and inexorably debilitating illness. We deeply grieve over this very sad and untimely demise which has robbed our nation so irreparably,” President Mnangagwa added.
Pathisa Nyathi leaves behind a legacy of numerous publications on Zimbabwe’s history, including genealogies and biographies of national icons. His contributions to education, particularly in Science and Mathematics, will also be remembered.
