EX-ARMY CHIEF BRIGADIER FONONO DUBE DIES AT 89

MBABANE – Former Army Commander Brigadier Fonono Dube, who had just turned 89 years last month, died peacefully at his home in Zombodze, at around 6am.

This was confirmed by Phesheya Dube, who was speaking on behalf of the family.
Phesheya said Dube died on Saturday morning while surrounded by his family.

He said it was difficult to comment further about the late Fonono who was serving Their Majesties, as they were yet to report the matter. Dube was known to have an iron fist during his era as the Army Commander.  The late Dube who was once a Head teacher at Zombodze High School around 1964, was chosen by King Sobhuza II to lead the army after identifying some vital skills that he possessed.

Samuel Dube, his son, said his father, being young, educated and a cultured person, was recognised by the King. According to Samuel, in the past, it was very rare to find an educated person, participating in cultural issues. He said at that time, teachers were highly recognised in the country and his late father, being a member of the regiment, was chosen to undergo training in Kenya by King Sobhuza II and upon return, placed him as army commander.

“King Sobhuza II identified a unique ability in my father (Fonono) whom he thought could advance the army towards becoming modernised alongside Prince Maphevu,” Samuel said. 
After retiring from the army he served in various emabandla; including the Border Restoration Committee.
While serving there, Dube once called a press briefing where he revealed sensitive information regarding land issues between Swaziland and South Africa.

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