Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
FREDDY “Kapfupi” Manjalima’s dream of shooting a movie has been transformed into a remarkable reality.
The pioneer of street theatre captivated audiences last weekend at the private premiere of his movie, “Tambu: The Daughter of the Soil,” held at the Reps Theatre in Belgravia, Harare.
While it may have seemed that his world was crumbling amid challenging fortunes, Kapfupi’s management team and family take pride in the unwavering love and support he receives from his fans and Good Samaritans alike.
This beloved actor recently received two cars, gifted by Sir Wicknell Chivayo, and has earned not only sympathy from his fans, but also the respect of his peers in the film industry.
Last weekend, he was the actor whose revival is on the mend.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, his brother and manager, Sam Manjalima, expressed that Kapfupi was in high spirits following the successful premiere of their highly anticipated film, directed by Ireland-based filmmaker Caroline Nyaka-Chana.
Nyaka-Chana, who previously managed Kapfupi during his peak before relocating overseas, features him in the lead role.
The film’s talented cast also includes Cody “Rank Marshall” Tinker, Sabhuku Aphiri, and Darlington “Dhadza D” Zhanje, with Nyaka-Chana herself portraying Tambu.
Produced with remarkable quality, the movie’s private premiere last Saturday brought together the entire cast, shining the spotlight on Kapfupi as the main attraction.
He was celebrated for his consistency, which has solidified his status as a household name. His manager, Sam Manjalima, praised those who continue to recognise the value of his brother’s work.
“It’s a great feeling to know that there are still people who love and cherish my brother for his good deeds.
“He is exceptionally talented and has faced numerous challenges, but having caring supporters like Sir Wicknell and my sister Caroline Nyaka-Chana come to our aid is monumental.”
He added:
“I have never doubted him. Now that he has completed the film he has always dreamed of, this could very well change his fortune for the better.”
As someone who has managed Kapfupi’s affairs for a quarter of a century, Manjalima was optimistic that his younger brother had found Good Samaritans in his career.
“To have people travel all the way from Ireland to help you and inspire you to revive your career is truly extraordinary. The producer is a blessing, and we need to support her as she empowers not only my brother but also puts Zimbabwe on the world map.”
In another interview, Nyaka-Chana, the filmmaker, noted that they were determined to make an impression.
“I have always wanted to work with Kapfupi, having managed him long before I went to Europe,” she stressed.
“Kapfupi was one of the people who made history with street theatre, along with the late Marabha (Charles Mapalume). It was easy working with him on this movie.
“As I said in previous interviews, I once managed them before I moved overseas, but I always stay in touch with him.
“I would have loved to include Marabha, but unfortunately, he is no longer with us. We had to improvise and bring in new and familiar faces for this movie. We have covered much ground, and the big stage has been set.”
Judging by the trailer of “Tambu — Daughter of the Soil,” which features the song “Mengdhadhe,” it was expertly crafted in all aspects — lighting, sound, picture quality, direction and stunning costumes —capturing the storyline of this movie set to grace the big screen soon.
