Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
CREATIVES have come together to host a gala in honour of the late Desire “Moyoxide” Moyo, set to take place this evening at his residence, Number 11732 Nkulumane 11, where mourners have gathered.
Moyoxide, who tragically passed away on October 11, after the vehicle he was travelling in from Harare to Bulawayo collided with an elephant near Shangani, will be laid to rest tomorrow at Lady Stanley Cemetery.
Artistes expected to perform at the gala include Madlela Sikhobokhobo, Clement Magwaza, Abigail Mabuza, Godolude, Ndux Junior, Bhadilah, Colleen Moyo, Abantwana Bensindiso YamaNazaretha, Juice, Indosakusa The Morning Star, Great Stars iJongosi and Khaya Arts, among others.
As Moyoxide was a revered poet, wordsmiths from across Bulawayo — including Um’Africakazi, Thaluso Da Poet, Obert Dube, Sonkomose, Lady Tshawe, Nxayezwe Mbulazi and Zweli Mjabulisi — are also expected to deliver poetic tributes in his honour.
One of the gala organisers, Future Dube of Khaya Arts, described Moyoxide as an extraordinary individual who supported everyone in the arts sector, inspiring them to organise a grand send-off befitting his legacy.
“Moyoxide was a people’s person who built strong relationships with many musicians. He gave most of us a platform to shine through initiatives like Eziko Theatre Laboratory, which brought together artistes from all walks of life to celebrate culture.
“As we prepare to lay him to rest on Thursday, it felt right to honour him with a gala. We’ve set up a big stage at his home in Nkulumane, where we’ll celebrate Moyoxide’s life through music, poetry and performances until dawn,” said Dube.
He said that everything is in place, with the Moyo family fully endorsing the idea.
Wordsmith Thaluso Da Poet, one of Moyoxide’s mentees, described his late mentor as extraordinary, saying this inspired them to plan a grand gala filled with entertainment.
“Every artiste in Bulawayo has a story with Moyoxide. He was welcoming, a great listener and always supportive. As we say our final goodbyes, we want to honour him through what he loved most — art.
“With the poets’ segment ready, we’re prepared to perform for Moyoxide and give him the farewell he deserves,” said Thaluso Da Poet.
Meanwhile, Future Dube said celebrations of Moyoxide’s life will continue after the gala, with his body set to tour Nkulumane and other places he cherished during his lifetime. Key stops include Nkulumane Hall, next to Sekusile Bus Terminus, which hosts Moyoxide’s Victory Siyanqoba and was the site of Eziko Theatre Laboratory sessions.
The hearse will also visit other significant locations in the city centre before arriving at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre, where thousands are expected to pay their respects during the memorial service.
He will finally be laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery.
