Online ReporterMalven Mugadzikwa
Renowned gospel musician, Dr Togarepi Chivaviro, last week visited Gokwe District Hospital, where he spent time with patients, sharing music, gifts and words of encouragement in a gesture he described as giving back to an institution that once saved his life.
Dr Chivaviro said the visits to the hospital, which he started last year, are meant to ensure that patients hospitalised during the festive season also experience the joy of Christmas.
During the latest visit, he moved from ward to ward, starting with the children’s ward before visiting the men’s, women’s and maternity wards, singing gospel songs, interacting with patients and distributing snacks, food and drink.
“I started visiting Gokwe District Hospital last year to spend time with in-patients on Christmas Day,” he said.
“I usually spend about an hour with them, sharing Christmas love and singing for them. We also give them a few goodies so that they can feel the joy of Christmas just like those outside the hospital.”
Dr Chivaviro said the hospital holds special significance to him, as he was admitted there several times during his primary school years.
“I feel the hospital was used by God to save my life, so this is my small way of giving thanks. I also take time to interact with hospital management and staff to identify areas of need,” he said.
This year’s visit was conducted in liaison with the hospital authorities and with the assistance of Gokwe South District Medical Officer, Dr Austin Mashoko, who accompanied the artist during the rounds.
“The main idea was simply to provide uplifting entertainment that shows love, especially because being in a hospital during Christmas can be very awkward for patients. We wanted to remind them that Christmas is here and that they are not forgotten,” said Dr Chivaviro.
Dr Mashoko hailed the gesture, describing it as a sign of compassion and respect for people going through difficult times.
“We really appreciate the visit. He took his time to be with patients, giving them food and spending Christmas with them,” he said.
“He could have been with family, relatives or performing elsewhere, but he chose to be here with patients in Gokwe. This is not the first time he has done this and we are very grateful.”
Meanwhile, Dr Chivaviro revealed that he has begun preparations for the launch of his 22nd gospel album, which he hopes to unveil for the first time in Gokwe on August 1 next year.
He said engagements with local authorities and key stakeholders were already underway.
“As always, the album will feature collaborations, but this time we are introducing a more African sound,” he said.
“Before August, we will be releasing one music video per month for the six songs we released this year, while continuing work on the new album.”
