Joseph Wilfred Msika, Zimbabwe’s former Vice President, was born on December 6, 1923, in Chiweshe Reserve, Mazoe District. His father was a progressive farmer and polygamist who valued education and innovation. Msika attended the Howard Institute and later trained as a carpenter.

Msika’s entry into politics was influenced by his trade union experience. In 1961, he organized a successful strike, which led to his job loss. Undeterred, he started his own business selling groceries. He joined the African National Congress (ANC), becoming Chairman of the Bulawayo Branch and later National Treasurer.

Msika served as Minister of Natural Resources and Water Development, Minister of Public Construction and National Housing, and Senior Minister of Local Government. He became Second Vice-President in 1999, holding the position until his passing in 2009. Msika was conferred national hero status and buried at National Heroes’ Acre, leaving a lasting legacy in Zimbabwe’s history.

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