Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Popular actor and master of ceremonies Patrick Muzvondiwa believes the funeral of veteran television personality William “Gweshegweshe” Matenga should serve as a wake-up call for creatives to unite and respect one another despite generational differences.
Muzvondiwa said the funeral proceedings exposed divisions within the creative sector, particularly the apparent disconnect between established artists and a new generation of content creators.
Gweshegweshe’s funeral wake and burial were largely attended by creatives from his generation and those who have been part of the mainstream theatre, film and television industry.
However, a significant number of younger comedians, particularly skit-makers, were conspicuously absent from both the funeral wake and burial.
Although attendance was not mandatory, Muzvondiwa believes that respecting and honouring pioneers of the creative industry should remain a priority for all generations.
“I know some people might not agree with me, but Gweshegweshe’s funeral wake and burial were enough to teach us the importance of respecting our elders despite generational differences,” Muzvondiwa told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“When you reflect on our industry, you will realise that there were pioneers such as Mukadota (Safirio Madzikatire) and many others of his generation who laid the foundation and encouraged most of us to consider acting as a profession.
“We must be worried about the continuity of this trend because these are the people who set the pace for us.”
Muzvondiwa said Gweshegweshe’s funeral also brought into focus the need for younger creatives to acknowledge the contribution of those who paved the way for them.
“Among those who attended the funeral were people from his generation and other industry veterans, including Ben Sibenke, formerly of Studio 263, where he played Mr Shereni; Mai Jilimba (Patience Musafare Zimbeva); Timothy Tapfumaneyi; Aaron Chiundura Moyo; and Mbudziyadhura (Blessing Chimhowa).
“Of course, the funeral proceedings stretched over several days, with some people visiting Gweshegweshe’s home in Chitungwiza to pay their condolences while others attended the burial.
“However, I was not convinced by the numbers.
“I noticed that a generation of people who identify themselves as creatives was missing in action, which made me question whether we are truly united.”Muzvondiwa, who has made his name through productions such as Kuchina, other short film projects and his work as a master of ceremonies, added:
“I know I will receive criticism for saying this, but it is high time the truth was told for the good of the industry.
“I am fully aware that people have their own choices, but we should always learn to respect our trendsetters.
“Had it not been for these pioneers and elders who laid the foundation, I do not think many of us would have been inspired to follow in their footsteps.
“Of course, technology has evolved and many of us have rebranded, but that should not stop us from working together.
“In other countries, legends of Gweshegweshe’s calibre are respected and celebrated.
“We can also do the same here in Zimbabwe.”
Muzvondiwa is not only an actor and master of ceremonies but also a motivational speaker who advocates unity and collaboration within the creative sector.
