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PROVINCIAL hero and veteran actor William “Gweshegweshe” Matenga will be laid to rest at Warren Hills Cemetery today.
After what seemed to be a deadlock amongst family members on whether to bury him at their rural Buhera home or Harare, the matter was settled once he was conferred the Provincial Hero status yesterday.
The 65-year-old former Gringo actor died at the weekend after succumbing to hypertension.
He has now been honoured for his involvement in national development from the days of the liberation struggle.
ZANU PF Harare provincial political commissar, Voyage Dambuza said the late actor had distinguished himself both in entertainment and political activities.
“Gweshegweshe has been declared a provincial hero today, taking into account his contribution to the party and the development of the nation.
“He was not only an actor but was also actively involved in party and War Veterans Association activities,” said Dambuza.
He said the late entertainer was a committed party member who continued to serve in different capacities.
“Gweshegweshe was a dedicated cadre in the party who served the party with distinction.
“By the way, he was the MC (master of ceremonies) at the recent War Veterans Association meeting in Epworth.
“He was dedicated to his work and serving the party with distinction.”
While the political recognition has dominated the latest developments surrounding his death, Gweshegweshe’s biggest claim to fame remains his unforgettable television performances.
He became a household name through the popular Gringo television series, which entertained audiences on ZTV and established a memorable generation of local television characters.
He shared the screen with the late Lazarus “Gringo” Boora, Fanuel “Firimoni” Tonganayi and Stembeni Makawa, popularly known as Mai Gweshegweshe.
His comic performances made him a familiar face in Zimbabwean households, with his character leaving an enduring impression on viewers.
A close relative, Tarisai Nyikayaramba, said the family appreciated the recognition and the decision to honour the actor’s wishes.
“We can’t thank the party enough for honouring Gweshegweshe’s wish to be buried alongside fellow comrades, as that was his wish.
“He touched the hearts of millions with his acting prowess, which will remain engraved in the minds of many.
“We will miss all the humour and the legacy he left behind,” said Nyikayaramba.
The provincial hero recognition also places Gweshegweshe among several prominent entertainers who have received similar honours.
The list includes Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, Soul Jah Love (Soul Muzavazi) and Dickson Chingaira Makoni, popularly known as Cde Chinx.
Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, on the other hand, was declared a national hero in recognition of his immense musical influence and the ambassadorial role he played through his music.
He was buried at his rural home in Madziva, Mashonaland Central, in accordance with his family’s wishes.
Meanwhile, Gweshegweshe’s body was taken to his Zengeza 5 home in Chitungwiza yesterday, where it lay in state ahead of today’s burial.
Mourners, fellow actors, friends and neighbours gathered around sunset, with many coming to pay their final respects to the man whose performances brought laughter to the industry.
