Trust Khosa
THE late veteran actor, William “Gweshegweshe” Matenga, was not only an entertainer, but also a unifier, caring father and community leader who was firm and resolute in defending his people.
So courageous was the departed creative and former freedom fighter that he left behind a legacy to be cherished for generations.
These were some of the tributes paid to him at his burial yesterday at Warren Hills Cemetery in Harare, following his declaration as a provincial hero.
Fellow actors, former freedom fighters and fans, some holding portraits of the late actor, celebrated his life in style in a ceremony befitting his stature.
In an eulogy penned by Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Senator Charles Tawengwa, and read on his behalf by provincial coordinator and director Mrs Catherine Kampila, Gweshegweshe was described as a man whose death had left an immense void.
“Cde William Matenga, who was known as Cde Bvuma Zvipere during the liberation struggle, was also affectionately known to generations of television viewers as Gweshegweshe, a man whose life connected two powerful chapters of the nation’s story: the struggle for liberation and the stories shared on television,” Minister Tawengwa said.
“Truly, the nation has lost a courageous son, a liberation war veteran and performer whose presence brought laughter and warmth into homes.
“Before audiences welcomed him into their living rooms, Cde Matenga had already served the country during the liberation struggle.
“His courage and commitment belonged to a generation that endured great hardships in pursuit of a free Zimbabwe. That service was a profound part of who he was – an enduring expression of love for his country and its people. He also served in the Zimbabwe National Army for 36 years.”
Gweshegweshe was also commended for upgrading his academic qualifications after independence, studying communication, journalism and other related courses.
He also received several accolades, including liberation, independence, ten years of service and DRC campaign medals, among others.
Fellow actors also paid tribute to his humility, which endeared him to people from all walks of life.
Family members were equally devastated by his passing, with his daughter-in-law, Cleopatra Matenga, speaking on their behalf.
“We have lost a problem-solver and someone who was always ready to defend the family.
“It is hard to believe that he is gone, and we will miss him,” she said.
Iconic actor and academic Ben Sibenke, who represented the first generation of Zimbabwean actors, described the late performer as a legend.
“Of course, I did not get an opportunity to work closely with him, but I followed his work,” Sibenke said.
“This man was so humble that, all along, I was not even aware that he had gone to war and was a liberation war veteran.
“He never bragged about his war credentials. He was indeed a humble man who got along well with others.”
Affirming his humility and father-figure role in society, actor Taurai Boora, son of the late Lazarus “Gringo” Boora, described Gweshegweshe as a mentor.
“Some of us were fortunate to have followed his work on television and also worked with him on several projects,” said Boora, whose late father formed an unforgettable on-screen combination with Gweshegweshe.
“This is a big loss to the nation, and we can only celebrate his achievements and everything he left for us.
“It would be difficult, if not impossible, to fill those big shoes, but we are offering to do our best to make him happy wherever he is by following his teachings religiously.”
Fellow actor Blessing “Mbudziyadhura” Chimhowa was equally devastated by the loss.
“It is a loss to us, and we can only celebrate his legacy.
“As for the character of Mbudziyadhura, it is literally dead because it evolved from what Gweshegweshe did.”
Actress Kessia “Muchaneta” Masona said she would also miss Gweshegweshe. Fellow actors and filmmakers, including Patrice Muzvondiwa, Eddie Sandifolo, Fatima Makunganya, Patience Musafare, popularly known as Mai Jilimba, and Timothy Tapfumaneyi, also attended the burial.
Gweshegweshe is survived by seven children.
