Online Reporter
By John Nyashanu
Special Correspondent
FOR three nights the usually tranquil atmosphere of Budiriro 5 shops in Harare transformed into a mourning zone.
Vigils were held throughout the nights.
Tents were pitched.
Contributions poured in from across the political divide.
Meals were served with caterers working around the clock − all courtesy of a united community.
The event was the death of a man of no fixed abode − Gift Kembo, popularly known as ‘Majibha’ at the shopping centre, which had become his home for over two decades.
So popular was Majibha that literally everyone with roots in this community played a part to ensure a dignified send-off for him.
In interviews with H-Metro, residents said throughout his stay there, Majibha would undertake various jobs in homes and described him as a humble and sociable lad.
“To say I’ve been pained is an understatement.
“He was like a son to me,” said Precious ‘Chihera’ Perire adding that she once sheltered him for four years at her Hair Salon. Another resident, Beauty Musekiwa, added:
“Despite being of no fixed abode Majibha was one good example of a noble man whom we all counted on in our homes, undertaking whatever task with distinction. “We just can’t let him get a pauper’s burial.”
Led by educationist Miriam Kachayi, Member of Parliament Darlington Chigumbu, Councillor Blessed Duma, prominent activist Zivanai Machingauta and a touched community, contributions were bountiful.
Kachai bought the coffin, flowers and food.
Machingauta chipped in with transport and tents and another benefactor Titos ‘’Bitsvotsvo’ Guvi came in with beverages, just to mention a few.
As his body arrived last Saturday in a Ford Everest, courtesy of yet another benevolent benefactor Shingirayi Machemedze, the shopping centre came to a standstill.
Kombis hooted non-stop, vendors momentarily ceased operations and residents trooped from their homes to welcome ‘home’ a man who had become part of their lives for a long time.
The following day all roads led to Granville cemetery with mourners braving incessant rains which pounded Harare on that day.
The rains couldn’t deter them from giving one of their own a befitting send-off.
In death, he turned from a homeless man to a community hero.
