By Flata Kavinga
Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube has extended condolences to the family of provincial hero Lameck “Shebetshebe” Buka, describing his death as a loss to the province and the country.
Buka, who died on November 10, 2026, at Kwekwe General Hospital after a long illness, was buried at Torwood Cemetery in Redcliff.
In his condolence message during the burial, Ncube said Buka’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and post-independence development had earned him recognition as a dedicated nationalist.
“On behalf of the Midlands Province, Kwekwe District and indeed on my own behalf, allow me to submit my deepest condolences to the Buka family on the untimely departure of their beloved father, grandfather and mentor,” he said.
Ncube said Buka was recognised for his role in the liberation struggle and his leadership during the land reform programme, which saw him awarded liberation hero status by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Born on 18 December 1943, in Lower Gweru, Buka joined the liberation struggle in 1976, serving as chairman of ZIPRA structures in the Gokwe Kana area until the ceasefire.
He later worked at Ziscosteel as a crane driver and was also a footballer for the steelmaker’s team.
Ncube said Buka remained active in politics after independence, contributing to efforts towards the 1987 Unity Accord between ZANU and PF ZAPU.
He rose through the ZANU PF structures to become Midlands provincial secretary for finance and later served as vice-chairman of the party’s Takawira District.
Ncube urged mourners to draw lessons from Buka’s dedication and commitment to public and political service, saying his legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Buka’s son, Fortwell Buka, thanked President Mnangagwa for according his father liberation hero status.
He said the family would remember their patriarch for his guidance, discipline, wisdom and emphasis on unity and patriotism.
Buka is survived by his wife, Christine, six daughters and two sons.
