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MUSHANDIRAPAMWE Hotel’s second-generation proprietor, Agrey “Matemai” Tavengwa, is no more.
He succumbed to cancer of the colon at a private hospital on January 6 and was buried at Zimdale Farm near Waddilove Mission.
Allan Chimbetu, whose late brothers – Simon, Naison and Ibrahim (Briam) – made a name for themselves at the venue, was devastated by the news. Allan, who took over the reins of Orchestra Dendera Kings after the death of Simon in 2005, hailed Matemai for his support.
“I used to get a lot of help from Matemai as the youngest brother and last born in a family of singers made up of Simon ‘Chopper’, Naison ‘Dr Nero’ and Braim Chimbetu,” he said.
The Orchestra Dendera Kings (Central Committee) band leader, said he was humbled by Matemai’s kindness.
“He used to give us refreshments as well as fuel when they had tours.
“Matemai knew how to fairly handle these two brothers (Naison and Simon) by assisting them differently.
“Matemai did not stop there, he carried on and assisted us, myself, Sulu, Tryson and Douglas in so many ways, that is why I feel at home when I am at Mushandirapamwe Hotel.”
Allan said Matemai helped in promoting the Dendera genre.
“We worked together in lifting this genre and he even assisted the younger Chimbetu generation. We have lost a friend and a brother.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Suluman, who hardly disappoints at the venue.
“I cannot believe that Matemai is gone. He took care of the Chimbetus and many players in the entire arts, tourism and culture industry.
“Matemai taught us humility, tolerance and patriotism.
“Matemai supported the likes of Kiren Zulu, Leonard Zhakata, Dr Thomas Mapfumo, Dr Oliver Mtukudzi, Zex Manatsa and even Gringo passed through Mushandirapamwe Hotel.
“This hotel’s hospitality did not change from its founding fathers to Matemai. He was a simple man who could sit with you in the garden. To us as the Chimbetu clan, he stood with Dendera music from day one,” he said.
Sulu urged the new owners to emulate Matemai.
“To those taking over from Matemai, just put into practice what he did,” he said.
Tryson Chimbetu, whose father Naison passed through Mushandirapamwe Hotel, said he was saddened by the loss.
“Matemai contributed a lot to the development of our music for decades.
“He was the pillar of Dendera music, he stood with our brand from the founding generation of our fathers, Simon Chopper, Naison Dr Nero, Braim and Allan Chimbetu.
“Mushandirapamwe Hotel is the home of Dendera music, meaning we have lost a cadre.
“If I had power, I would ask for his hero status today because he promoted a number of artists at this place,” Tryson said.
Allan’s son, Douglas Chimbetu, 31, who regularly performs at the place, described Matemai as a mentor.
“Matemai was more of a grandfather to me because he also groomed me.
“I am at a loss for words following his death. I am hurt and in agony,” he said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter