Barna tributes pour in from SA

Blessed Katiyo in Johannesburg

SHOCKWAVES of the sudden death of Orchestra Mberikwazvo Band member Barnabas Mandipota who passed away last weekend have been felt across the Limpopo with a number of music promoters in South Africa expressing their tributes.

Johannesburg was one of the cities that Mandipota traversed with Orchestra Mberikwazvo and he left an indelible mark in the hearts of many.

The lanky multi-talented artist was mostly recognised for his vocal prowess that added flavour to “Band ReVanhu” as Alick Macheso’s group is affably called.

Among those touched by Barna’s death was Oliver “Papa Ollie” Noruware who had to fly from Johannesburg to attend the funeral wake.

“The death of Barna came as a shock to me. He was somebody I took as a brother and his death was unexpected. He was a soft fellow and was very respectful. It is a huge loss and still very hard to believe,” said Noruware.

Felistas Chizororo leader of CC Promotions also echoed similar sentiments:

“Ever since he joined Mberikwazvo he added so much value and for all the tours that we have hosted he exuded some level of professionalism that was par excellence. He was free-spirited and a people’s person.

“He was quite a shy guy but full of jokes. We have lost a valuable member and condolences to the family, Orchestra Mberikwazvo and even to us as promoters. Even the Bible says whoever is born of woman has very few days on earth,” said Chizororo.

Veteran promoter and one of Orchestra Mberikwazvo backers Welly Manyonda also weighed in:

“It has been a very painful week especially for me. I took Barnabas as a young brother. He was someone who was serious with his work and always wanted to share his talent with the whole world. He was one of the newest members of the band but the impact that he left will be felt for a very long time. We can only say go well Barna you ran your race,” said Manyonda.

Among those that he worked with closely was sound system company JJ Production fronted by Chenjerai Kadzinga and Ranga “Blackhorse” Mahachi.

They also released a statement:

“Barnabas’ powerful voice was a gift – effortless, emotive and commanding. As sound engineers we marvelled at his natural talent making our job easier with every note. His passing leaves a gaping hole that will be difficult to fill. Our condolences to his family, friends and the Orchestra Mberikwazvo crew.