By Cde. Nqobizitha Dumakude Khumalo
Dr. Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo,
You are a father figure to me and many others. Growing up, I listened to South African legends like the Mahotella Queens, Mahlathini Nkabinde, Spokes Mashiyane and Izintombi Zesimanje. At home, it was you, Zexie Manatsa, Oliver Mtukudzi, Jordan Chataika, Mechanic Manyeruke, and Jackson Chinembiri. Yet, you stood above the rest.
You pioneered Chimurenga music—a genre that carried the spirit of the liberation struggle. Your timeless songs Chiruzevha Chapera, Pamuromo Chete, Bhutsu Mutandarika and Tumirai Vana Kuhondo inspired a generation. At independence, you celebrated with Pemberai and reminded us of vigilance through lyrics like “Gandanga uchariziva here ukariona, ririkutonga Zimbabwe yaro.”
“You were more than a musician; you were a social conscience.”
You warned against HIV in Mukondombera, spoke against apartheid in South Africa, and called for peace in Mozambique. You became our very own Bob Marley, blending art with activism, never confined by partisan boundaries.
During Robert Mugabe’s long tenure, you critiqued governance through music, but never targeted individuals directly. You sang of corruption, political violence and social injustices—always with balance. You were listened to across political divides.
“Once, your voice guided all Zimbabweans; now, it sings to a partisan gallery.”
Today, however, you have taken a different path. Your videos labeling President Mnangagwa a “thief,” your calls for government overthrow, and your open endorsement of one politician have tied you to one side of politics. While this is your right, it limits your reach.
A non-partisan Mukanya could still guide both government and opposition. ZANU-PF, like any ruling party, has made mistakes. But the opposition, too, is far from perfect. They also need the wisdom of elders. By choosing sides, you risk losing the authority to mentor and correct without bias.
“Zimbabwe is divided, Baba Mukanya. What we need now is unity.”
Zimbabwe is divided, Baba Mukanya. What we need now is unity. You are one of the few artists with the power to bring President Mnangagwa and opposition leaders like Nelson Chamisa under one roof, dancing together to the beat of Mugarandega. Just as Bob Marley did at the One Love Peace Concert in Jamaica in 1978, you could give Zimbabwe its own moment of healing.
You know the dangers of divisive music. In the early 1990s, your song Nyarai angered many in Bulawayo who felt mocked after their favourite party lost. You were pelted with missiles, and stayed away until after the Unity Accord of 1987. That incident showed how powerful music can be—to heal or to wound.
“It would be a beautiful thing, Mukanya, if you were to return home for one last grand concert.”
Dr. Mapfumo, you fought for this country in your own way and deserve honour. But you must reclaim your place as a unifier, not a divider. Imagine one last grand concert at the National Sports Stadium—Mukanya leading Zimbabweans from all walks of life, all parties, all generations, in song. That would be the legacy you leave behind.
You still have that power. Remember, you once said you wanted to be buried in Zimbabwe. Many of us don’t want to attend your funeral—we want to attend your live shows, while you are alive and strong.
“If you truly love Zimbabwe, fight for her by lobbying against sanctions.”
You also have another mission. From America, you can be our ambassador for the removal of sanctions. The poverty you lament is not just corruption-driven; it is worsened by sanctions. If you truly love Zimbabwe, fight for her on that front.
You remain my hero, Mukanya. Belated happy birthday. May God grant you more years—and may you return home not as a partisan figure, but as the unifying voice Zimbabwe desperately needs.
Cde. Khumalo is the Spokesperson for the Movement Against Zim-Sanctions (MAZ).
