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Prince Mushawevato
THE local arts industry mourns the loss of veteran entertainer Susan Chenjerai, who passed away on July 5.
The multi-talented artiste, who later found purpose in full-time pastoring, reportedly died after a short illness aged 83.
Several small screen couples have emerged over the years, but Baba naMai Rwizi from “Mhuri yaVaMukadota (Mukadota Family)” arguably stand out. Transcending generations, their portrayal by the late Safirio Madzikatire and Chenjerai resonated deeply with local audiences; they left an indelible mark on viewers. Decades after the show’s finale in 1996, the production’s depiction of family dynamics, social issues and everyday life continues to inspire and reverberate.
The show’s humour and heart-warming storylines not only entertained viewers but also offered a window into Zimbabwean culture, sparking conversations that continue to this day.
The journey began with a radio programme, “Mhuri yaVaMakore”, which blossomed into the iconic sitcom “Mhuri yaVaMukadota” in 1972.
It is undeniable that Madzikatire (Mukadota) was a talented artiste, but it was the chemistry between him and the entire cast, particularly the phenomenal Chenjerai, that truly captivated audiences.
Other members of the cast included Madhuve, Rwizi and his wife Katarina, Chibhodhoro and Machipisa.
Mukadota’s mischievous antics, often leaving Mai Rwizi to smooth things over, mirrored the realities of family life, complete with its challenges and enduring love. Who has forgotten how Mukadota tormented Baba and Mai Phineas, and sometimes Bonnie, just for the relationship — or the little that would be left of it — to be salvaged by his wife?
Mai Rwizi played a calm and respectful wife who unconditionally loved her notorious husband.
“Chivaregerai kani Amai Phineas, hamuvazivi here Baba Rwizi?” Mai Rwizi would say in her husband’s defence.
There was also an incident in which Baba Rwizi married a second wife, Madhuve, who had initially relocated to the United States. Mai Rwizi thanked Madhuve for reconsidering Baba Rwizi’s marriage proposal, saying: “Mwoyo wangu wasununguka, Baba Rwizi vanga vakugara vakasuwa vachikufunga.”
On set, Mukadota, who passed away in 1996, would fire off punchlines that Mai Rwizi would come right back with a retort that somehow managed to be even funnier. It was as if they could read each other’s mind considering much of their production was not scripted.
Many believe Chenjerai’s death has come as a big blow to the arts fraternity.
“I am troubled as I speak. I wanted to attend her funeral wake but I am struggling with my swollen legs due to diabetes. It is unfortunate that my car broke down and is being fixed. I was supposed to be at the funeral,” said Chibhodhoro, born John Muyambo.
The diminutive 74-year old, famed for his exceptional drum-playing skills and acting in the “Mhuri yaVaMukadota” drama series, has a rich history with the late Chenjerai.
“I think I am one of a few, if not the only, surviving senior members of ‘Mhuri yaVaMukadota’. This is a big blow. We worked well with Susan. She was a jovial person and never got angry with anyone.
“She has left a big void that will be difficult to fill. I started working with her around 1976. She was a great actress, who also composed powerful songs,” added Chibhodhoro.
He chronicled how the duo of Chenjerai and Madzikatire parted ways.
“When she joined Mukadota, she helped push the brand to dizzy heights because of her powerful gift. However, along the way, the two separated over monetary issues and she formed her own group,” revealed Chibhodhoro.
“I worked with Mai Rwizi on television productions. That same year, the late Katarina (Elizabeth Taderera) joined us. When Mai Rwizi left, she was replaced by Katarina.”
There are two versions of Mukadota’s hit song “Kwa Hunyani” and Chibhodhoro explained why.
“. . . that is why you realise the song ‘Kwa Hunyani’ has two versions. The original track was done by Susan (Mai Rwizi) and Mukadota, then the second version was re-recorded, with Katarina replacing Mai Rwizi.
“The two tracks sound different. When Mai Rwizi left, the other ladies in the band could not step into her shoes. That is when it was decided to rope in Katarina, whom we had identified in Mutare.
“I would like to thank the Almighty for the time He gave us to be with her (Chenjerai). She has left us at a time when we need her the most. I was shocked when I learnt of her untimely death. May her soul rest in peace,” added Chibhodhoro.
Madzikatire’s son Elijah also shared his memories with Chenjerai.
“She was our mother. This is a sad loss. She was an adviser and good to everyone she worked with. I was part of the pioneering group of ‘Mhuri yaVaMukadota’, which was initially called ‘Mhuri yaVaMakore’. I was Rwizi,” said Elijah.
He joined the production around 1976 before he left to pursue his solo career.
“She was very strict like mdhara (Mukadota) in terms of discipline. She would assist young ladies to find their footing in the arts industry, even after quitting showbiz. She was very good with advisory roles. I was not surprised that she eventually became a church pastor.
“She always exuded her humane side. I was young back then but I could see that she was a nice person. Because of my age, I only acted with her and never got the chance to join her music side,” recounts Elijah.
Chenjerai’s phenomenal voice and composing skills, he said, were pure magic.
“She stopped acting before mdhara’s death. I was close to her daughter Jane, whom I also worked with at one point. We tried to revive the Mukadota series with ‘Bhero Mukadota’ but unfortunately the project failed.
“I just wish upcoming artistes, especially female ones, could emulate her (Chenjerai) work and conduct; they would go far,” said Elijah.
Chenjerai’s acting career began in the early 50s as a member of an acting group from Mbare. Madzikatire then approached and persuaded her to join his band in 1969, after listening to her singing in a place in Mbare.
Around 1970, she got married to a pastor and eventually became a born-again Christian. She and her husband started preaching after she received a calling and left showbiz. By the time of her death, she was a pastor at the New Gospel Church of God.
For her sterling contributions to the arts sector, Chenjerai became a recipient of three important gongs, namely the National Arts Merit (Nama) Legend Award, Zimbabwe Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award and the Silver Jubilee Award.
Chenjerai had a total of six daughters, two of whom are now late.
Online Reporter