KEY POINTS
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Dr Paul Tadzimirwa Chidyausiku, a renowned Zimbabwean academic and elder brother of former Chief Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku, passed away at age 98.
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Acting President Chiwenga expressed deep sorrow and praised Dr Chidyausiku’s scholarly legacy, visiting the family home in Seke to offer condolences.
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Dr Chidyausiku was celebrated for his literary contributions, education advocacy, and mentorship within Zimbabwe’s academic and cultural sectors.
Zimbabwe’s Acting President, Dr Constantino Chiwenga, has extended his condolences following the passing of esteemed scholar and author Dr Paul Tadzimirwa Chidyausiku, who died peacefully at his home in Seke on May 9, 2025, at the age of 98.
According to Herald Online, Dr Chidyausiku was a respected figure in Zimbabwean intellectual and cultural circles, and the eldest among a distinguished family that included the late Chief Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku and the late diplomat Ambassador Boniface Chidyausiku.
His passing marks the end of a generation whose legacy has left a significant imprint on Zimbabwe’s academic, legal, and diplomatic history.
In an official statement issued to the press, Acting President Chiwenga said: “It is with a deep sense of sadness and grief that I learnt of the death of Dr Paul Tadzimirwa Chidyausiku.”
He further stated: “On behalf of His Excellency, the President, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, our party ZANU PF, Government, my family and on my own behalf, I express my heartfelt condolences to the Chidyausiku family, particularly Amai Joyce Chidyausiku and the children, at this difficult and heartbreaking time.”
Literary contributions remembered as Zimbabwe pays tribute to a lifelong scholar
Dr Chidyausiku was best known for his scholarly works, many of which explored the intersection of African philosophy, education, and national identity. His writings have been referenced in academic institutions across Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African region, and he is credited with nurturing critical dialogue on post-colonial nation-building through literature.
“May the family be consoled and find comfort in knowing that the written works of their father will forever be etched in the annals of history,” the Acting President added, recognizing Dr Chidyausiku’s enduring impact on Zimbabwe’s intellectual heritage.
Acting President Chiwenga also visited the Chidyausiku family residence in Seke, where he offered his personal condolences and spent time with grieving relatives. The visit was part of a broader government gesture to honor national figures who have contributed significantly to the development of Zimbabwean society.
Dr Chidyausiku’s legacy is also one of mentorship and quiet service. Throughout his life, he supported literacy programs in rural communities, worked on curriculum development for national education initiatives, and advised several non-governmental organizations on cultural preservation.
Tributes have poured in from across the country. Academics, former students, and public officials have taken to social media and news platforms to honor the late scholar. Professor Miriam Duri, a longtime colleague, remarked: “Dr Chidyausiku was a gentle giant in our academic community—measured, wise, and committed to seeing Zimbabwe flourish intellectually.”
As the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its intellectual elders, plans for a memorial service are underway, with speculation that Dr Chidyausiku may be posthumously honored with a national award.
Further announcements on burial arrangements are expected from the family in coordination with the government.
