Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
FIERY rhythm guitarist Lucky Mumiriki is critically ill, battling a recurring stroke.
The 56-year-old has been admitted to Westview Clinic in Kuwadzana, Harare.
Renowned medical practitioner and philanthropist Dr Johannes Marisa is treating him free of charge.
Mumiriki’s wife, Shylet Chitembwe, praised Dr Marisa for his philanthropic gesture: “Dr Marisa is heaven-sent because he is trying his best to save my husband,” she stressed.
“My fear is that he is not talking or eating. We are praying for him to win this battle. He has been struggling with this condition for years. We are appealing for help from his former friends and employers.”
Chitembwe noted that Mumiriki has been unwell for years and is now struggling to make ends meet.
“His condition has been well publicised, but it is now critical.”
“Just imagine that he can’t talk, and we are leaving everything to God. It is our wish that he makes it. I am not in the right state of mind,” she added.
Mumiriki is a founding member of Chazezesa Challengers, established by Fanuel “System” Tazvida. He was among the pioneers of the band, along with Lee Roy Lunga and Peter Tazvida, among others. He joined Orchestra Mberikwazvo at the turn of the millennium after Tazvida’s death in 1999. He briefly worked with Peter Tazvida and Lunga after Tazvida’s passing. As Mumiriki battles poor health, his wife is calling for prayers from Zimbabweans to ensure that he wins his fight against the stroke.
“Your prayers are welcome. We need your support,” she emphasised.
Dr Marisa has vowed to do his best to save him: “I will continue doing my best to help him. We all know his contributions to the music industry. He is a living legend and trendsetter,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Dr Marisa, who has been offering free medical assistance to the widows of yesteryear musicians — including those of Leonard Dembo, Fanuel “System” Tazvida, Cde Dick Chingaira, and John Chibadura — has vowed to continue his good deeds.
