Farewell to ZCCT Chair

Prof John - as we affectionately knew him. The only “white”man in Buhera he used to jokingly say. And that was his nature - wit, good humour and an excellent communicator who could relate to people of all ages, incomes and ethnicities, despite his intellect, considerable experience and qualifications. Nothing phased nor deterred him. He said it as it was and this was something for which he was greatly admired and respected.

Prof John Makumbe
Prof John Makumbe

His stature was such that he commanded the attention of others wherever he went, and he was always cheerful, uplifting the spirits of those around him. He was affectionate and caring and his sound character and good nature often contrasted with the difficult situations in which he worked or lived.

Prof John was a committed patriot who chose to give himself 100% to his country and its people when so many others chose selfishness and the distractions of money and greed.

His often boyish behaviour reminded us all that life does not have to be so serious – but he struck a fine balance between this and his deep sense of responsibility.

He was everyone’s friend and he liked it that way and at ZDDT we shall sorely miss him, more as a colleague and team player rather than a Chairman – that’s the way he would have liked it to be!!! – Simon Spooner and the ZDDT team

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