Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Sunday Life Reporter
THE prospect of witnessing Chimurenga legend Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo return to the Zimbabwean stage has reignited a longing among local music lovers – a longing to see another of the country’s most treasured voices make a triumphant homecoming.
Following news that Mapfumo, who has spent years away from Zimbabwe, is set to perform in the country in events sponsored by philanthropist Sir Wicknell Chivayo, attention has now shifted to another music giant whose return would carry immense emotional significance, Lovemore Majaivana.
For many fans, a Majaivana homecoming concert would not just be a performance, but a celebration of heritage, identity and memories woven into decades of Zimbabwean music history.
Mapfumo is expected to headline Jah Prayzah’s upcoming wedding celebrations and perform at a private event hosted by Chivayo before the end of the year.
The 81-year-old music icon is set to receive US$1 million for the two performances, a development that has sparked conversations about other legendary musicians who deserve similar recognition.
Among those hoping to see Majaivana back on stage is 31-year-old Highlanders FC supporter Thamsanqa Magagula, who believes the Umoya Wami hit-maker remains a symbol of Ndebele pride and cultural identity.
“For many of us, Majaivana is more than just a musician. He is the soundtrack of our lives. I grew up listening to his music at home, during family gatherings and community celebrations. His songs taught me to value our language, our traditions and the culture that defines us as Ndebele people.
“Through his music, I found pride in my identity and a deeper connection to my roots. Seeing him return home after almost three decades would be an emotional moment that many of us never imagined possible.
“If Sir Wicknell answers our plea, it will not simply be another concert. It will be the homecoming of a legend whose music has preserved our stories across generations. Witnessing that moment would be a lifetime memory,” said Magagula.
Majaivana, who relocated to the United Kingdom nearly three decades ago, remains one of Zimbabwe’s most influential musicians. His distinctive voice and timeless songs continue to resonate with fans across generations, particularly in Matabeleland where his music has become deeply intertwined with community identity and cultural expression.
Veteran jazz musician and promoter Jeys Marabini believes Majaivana deserves the same level of appreciation and recognition being extended to Mapfumo, arguing that the country should celebrate its icons while they are still alive.
“I believe Thomas Mapfumo and Lovemore Majaivana deserve equal recognition. They belong to the same generation, they are of a similar age and both have made an immeasurable contribution to Zimbabwean music.
“Majaivana deserves to be celebrated. Even if it is just one major concert, bringing him back home would be a historic occasion. People have waited for years to see him perform again and it would be a truly special moment,” said Marabini.
Marabini added that Highlanders Football Club’s centenary celebrations could provide the perfect platform for such a historic return, especially given Chivayo’s recent association with the Bulawayo football giants.
“Majaivana’s music has always shared a special bond with Highlanders Football Club. His songs are part of Bosso’s history and are cherished by generations of supporters. Having him headline a Bosso@100 celebration would be a fitting tribute to both the club and one of Zimbabwe’s greatest musicians.
“We should celebrate our legends while they are still with us. Reaching 100 years is a remarkable milestone for Highlanders and there could be no better gift than welcoming Majaivana back home.
“I organised Majaivana’s farewell show before he left Zimbabwe in 2000. More than two decades have passed and I believe Highlanders’ centenary would be the perfect stage for his long-awaited return,” Marabini said.
As excitement builds around Mapfumo’s return, fans are hoping that the moment will inspire another historic reunion, one that sees Majaivana once again standing on a Zimbabwean stage, reconnecting with the audience that has carried his music for generations.
