Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
GOGO Chihera, the mother of Tongai Moyo who died yesterday afternoon at the age of 94, has been described as the glue which kept the family together after the death of the late sungura superstar.
Tongai died on October 15, 2011, at St Anne’s Hospital in Harare. His mother lived a further 14 years before her death at the family homestead in Sosombe, Zhombe, after a long battle with asthma.
Since the news of her death broke, tributes have been pouring in from around Zimbabwe and the Diaspora.
Musicians, promoters and fans are all remembering the woman they say was the quiet force behind one of the country’s biggest musical stars.
Social media feeds have been flooded with messages praising her influence on Tongai’s legendary career, with some people even describing her as “the mother of sungura” and the “hidden power behind the hits.”
Family spokesperson, Obert Moyo, who is her grandson, described Gogo Chihera as the pillar of strength for the Moyo family.
“Gogo had been unwell for some time, but her strength never left her,” Obert said.
“She was our pillar — not just as a mother and grandmother, but as a teacher of values, humility, and resilience.”
The family has opened channels for those wishing to support them.
“Those willing to support can contact us on 0773640632.
“Every gesture, big or small, is deeply appreciated.
“Gogo lived a full life.
“All we ask now is dignity as we lay her to rest. We thank the nation for standing with us in this time of grief.”
Tongai rose from humble beginnings in Kwekwe and Zhombe to make a huge mark on Zimbabwe’s musical scene.
He produced hits like ‘Naye’, ‘Samanyemba’ and ‘Muchina Muhombe,’ among others.
He led Utakataka Express Band, building a career celebrated for storytelling, social commentary and cultural pride.
Family members say Tongai’s discipline and values came from his mother.
“Gogo Chihera shaped the man Tongai became,” said a family elder.
“She raised him to respect people, culture, and hard work.
“His success came from her guidance.”
Fellow musicians have been paying their condolences.
“When we lost Tongai, we lost a giant,” one artist wrote online.
“Now we have lost the woman who gave us that giant. May her soul rest in peace.”
Fans, too, have been paying their tributes.
“She was the real backbone behind the music we love,” wrote one fan.
“Her passing reminds us that behind every star is a quiet hero.”
Cultural commentators say Gogo Chihera represented a generation of women whose sacrifices are rarely recognised, yet whose influence shaped the Zimbabwean arts sector.
“She may not have been on stage but her impact was,” said one arts commentator.
“These are the women who raised icons, often in silence.” Tongai Moyo often spoke about his mother as his moral compass. He said she was the person who grounded him as he walked through the challenges of fame and pressure.
Bongani Ndlovu