The Zanu PF Midlands provincial youth league is in mourning following the death of its deputy secretary for information and publicity, Tinashe Panganai, who died in a car accident on Sunday, 24 August 2025.
The news was confirmed by Midlands provincial chairperson Ernest Dzoro, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of our dear comrade, T Panganai,” Dzoro said in a statement. “He was a dedicated member of the Midlands province youth league, and his passing leaves a void in our hearts. On behalf of the Midlands province youth league, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Comrade T Panganai. May his soul rest in peace.”
Panganai’s untimely death has also been confirmed by the Gweru District Coordinating Committee (DCC), with secretary for information and publicity Victor Maride highlighting the shock and grief felt by the wider party membership. “On behalf of the Gweru DCC, management members, PB [politburo] members, central committee members, NCA, provincial members, district chairpersons, stakeholders, and affiliates in Gweru district, it is with profound sadness and shock that the Gweru DCC chairman, Honourable Brown Ndlovu, announces the passing of our beloved son, brother, and comrade, deputy secretary for information and publicity T Panganai,” Maride said.
Zanu PF Midlands Youth Leader Tinashe Panganai Dies in Tragic Car Accident
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred along the Mandamabwe-Shurugwi Road. Zanu PF Midlands Youth Leader’s vehicle reportedly suffered a tyre burst while crossing a bridge, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and overturn. Emergency services were called to the scene, but Panganai was pronounced dead shortly after the accident. Details regarding whether he was alone or if there were any other passengers have not yet been released.
Zanu PF Midlands Youth Leader, who had served as a key figure in the Midlands youth league, was widely respected for his dedication to party activities and youth mobilisation. Over the years, he played a prominent role in coordinating events, communicating party policies, and engaging with young members across the province. His colleagues described him as a vibrant, committed, and approachable leader whose enthusiasm for public service left a lasting impression.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the province, reflecting the deep impact Zanu PF Midlands Youth Leader had on both his peers and the communities he served. Party members emphasised his tireless work ethic and his commitment to empowering young people to participate in political processes and community initiatives.
“Cde Panganai was more than a colleague; he was a mentor and a friend to many of us in the youth league,” said one provincial youth member. “His sudden passing is a huge loss, not only to the party but to the youth he inspired to take an active role in governance and public life.”
The Midlands provincial youth league has indicated that arrangements for Panganai’s funeral and memorial service will be communicated to members and the public in due course. Party officials are expected to attend and pay their respects, with several provincial and national leaders likely to participate in the farewell.
Road safety advocates have also highlighted the accident as a reminder of the dangers of vehicle maintenance and road conditions, particularly in rural areas. Tyre failures, mechanical defects, and unsafe road infrastructure remain significant contributors to road accidents across Zimbabwe, often with fatal consequences.
This tragedy comes at a time when the youth league is intensifying its activities, focusing on civic engagement, leadership training, and mobilisation efforts ahead of key political initiatives. Panganai’s leadership and organisational skills were central to these efforts, making his loss particularly acute for ongoing projects.
In his statements, both Dzoro and Maride called on party members to remain united and continue the work Zanu PF Midlands Youth Leader championed, emphasising his enduring legacy in shaping the youth league’s vision. “While we mourn his passing, we must also honour his contributions by continuing to build the youth movement he dedicated his life to,” Dzoro said.
As the Midlands province and the broader Zanu PF community come to terms with this loss, the suddenness of Panganai’s death has left many reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of leadership and service. His colleagues have urged citizens and party members to prioritise road safety and vigilance while paying tribute to a young leader whose commitment and energy had inspired so many.
For the family, friends, and party members, the death of Tinashe Panganai is both a personal and collective tragedy — a moment of profound sorrow, but also an occasion to remember a life dedicated to public service, political activism, and the empowerment of Zimbabwe’s youth.
Source- ZimEye
