Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Philanthropist and businessman Cosmas “Cossy Rules” Daka says former Orchestra Mberikwazvo dancer Barnabas Mandipota represented Kadoma with distinction and that he is proud to have played a part in his journey.
Barnabas—affectionately known in showbiz as Barna—the backing vocalist, dancer-cum-drummer, died last Sunday after a short illness and was buried yesterday in Kadoma.
Reflecting on Barna’s life as a former Kadoma resident and creative, Cossy Rules said he was one of the benefactors who played a critical role at the start of his career. “Barna was a talented young man whom I used to sponsor when he started his band Nakiso Express while he was still unknown,” the philanthropist recalled.
“I helped him record a number of productions out of love. He used to tell me he would put Kadoma on the world map, and he did. I also used to buy uniforms for his band because I watched him grow, and I am glad to have been part of his journey.
“He used to update me at every step he took, and I was glad to be part of this journey because he quickly established himself as a talented singer.”
Cossy Rules, known for supporting musicians since the late Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo’s era, said his dream was to see Barna reach the same heights as the former Utakataka Express founder.
“From the first time I saw him, I could tell that he was ahead of his generation. I didn’t need to be told that he would end up playing for many of Zimbabwe’s top groups because I knew him as a creative genius. I used to joke with him, ‘Don’t forget us when you are on top,’ and he always insisted he would not betray me.” The former Kadoma councillor revealed that he once worried when Barna cut communication with him, but they later reconnected.
“At one point he was quiet as he moved from group to group, but that is common for musicians, especially when they get new offers. I was glad when he came to perform at one of my annual birthday events in Kadoma, where he played for every group on the line-up. He performed like a possessed man, and our benefactor–artist relationship continued.”
Now that he is gone, Cossy Rules urged the family to find comfort in the Lord, adding that Barna had played his part. “I know the wounds are still fresh and it will not be easy for them to come to terms with the death of such a young man. I also played my role as a community builder by giving him the exposure he needed as he tried to find his career path. I will continue assisting upcoming stars from my community. Barna was one of several talents we supported, and he went on to make an impression in an industry where it is never easy,” he added.
After the demise of Nakiso Express, Barna joined Somandla “Mafia” Ndebele and served with him for five years. He later joined Mark Ngwazi and played a critical part in creating the Njanja Express brand. After parting ways with Ngwazi over disciplinary matters, he rejoined Ndebele’s Denda Brothers and later moved to Orchestra Mberikwazvo.
He also had Ndebele’s blessing when he joined Macheso, and he maintained strong professional relationships to the end. Barna leaves behind a young family: a pregnant wife and four children, the eldest of whom is 10. He will be best remembered as a drummer, backing vocalist and choreographer.
A jovial character he was, Barna was creative genius plucked from Kadoma.
derick.khumalo