Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Somandla “Mafia” Ndebele says images and memories of the iconic Tongai “Dhewa” Moyo still affect him, 14 years after his death.
The sungura legend lost his battle with cancer on October 15, 2011.
He would have turned 57 this year. Yesterday, Dhewa’s fans posted heartfelt messages commemorating the Utakataka Express founder’s death. However, it was a different sentiment for Mafia, who has yet to recover from the loss of a good friend.“It’s hard to believe that it’s been 14 years, but I would be lying to say we have recovered from the loss,” he shared. “The death of Tongai is still fresh in my mind, and I don’t even know if I am going to recover or get over it.
“Each time I listen to some of the songs we did together, I have a strong feeling that something is missing. I start to miss him more because he was supposed to be singing his part while I did mine.”
Soma, as the Denda Brothers founder is fondly known, also revealed that fans open old wounds each time they request the track “Moyo Wekurera,” which used to be his signature tune.
“To be honest, every time they pay me to sing ‘Moyo Wekurera,’ I begin to miss him more. By the way, I am a very emotional person, and each time I lose a friend, relative, or someone close to me, I break down.
“I have lost many people in my life, including my parents, and you can see that I have suffered a lot witnessing some of the people I loved go just like that without saying goodbye,” he emphasised. Soma told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that his only relief is knowing that Dhewa’s legacy is in safe hands.“I am always in touch with his children, and it’s encouraging that they have managed to keep the legacy alive, which has always been our wish.
“Peter Moyo and his brothers (Tongai Junior and Tanaka) are doing well, and I am happy for them. If they need anything from me, I will gladly assist them because I was close to their father, and I saw them grow up,” he pointed out.
“It has always been Dhewa’s wish to see his children grow and do something meaningful, and I am glad the boys are trying their best. “The only support we can give them at the moment is to encourage them to work hard and be recognised for their efforts in maintaining their late father’s legacy.”Peter Moyo, who has dedicated the month of October to honour his father, shared a touching post on Facebook in memory of the Utakataka Express founder:
“I lost my legend, I lost my father, I lost my hero… Kwamuri ikoko fukirai nekutungamirira basa ramakasiya risaparara.”Peter’s younger sister, Nyasha Brend Moyo, posted an equally touching message: “Maiita zvinakidze wani…lala ngokuthula ntwana yami.”
Although much has happened since his death, Dhewa was indeed a man of the people who commanded a huge following. He invested significantly in his choreography, stage presence, and his band, which was known as the best-dressed sungura ensemble.
Not only was Dhewa a ladies’ man, but he also brought variety and broke monotony in sungura circles.
Fourteen years after his death, all hopes of maintaining the legacy are now pinned on Dhewa’s sons — Peter, Tongai Junior and Tanaka. The dynamic trio has been sharing the stage together during family shows in a show of solidarity, which many of Dhewa’s loyal fans have longed for over the years.
Mathew Masinge