Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
THE National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has welcomed Chimurenga legend Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo’s long-awaited return to the country, describing his upcoming shows as a major victory for Zimbabwe’s creative sector.
The arts regulatory body said the legendary musician’s decision to reconnect with his local fans is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated by the entire arts fraternity.
Mukanya last performed in Zimbabwe in 2018, marking his first appearance after spending 14 years abroad.
Since then, he has not returned to perform locally, making his forthcoming visit particularly significant for thousands of fans who have long yearned to see him on home soil again.
His return has been made possible through businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who offered the music icon a US$1 million package to perform at two events later this year.
Earlier this week, Mukanya accepted the offer and expressed his excitement about returning to Zimbabwe to perform for his fans.
“We are glad to hear that Mukanya is coming back to Zimbabwe to perform, and that alone is enough for the sector to celebrate,” NACZ spokesperson Agga Nyabinde told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“His visit is special because he will also be rewarded for his outstanding contribution to music.
“He is coming to perform, as he indicated, and that alone is good news for the sector.
“We have been yearning for this over the years, and having Mukanya performing back home is a huge bonus for the industry.
“We are happy for him and his camp to be returning home.”
Nyabinde, who also has a strong music background, said there was nothing wrong with Mapfumo accepting Chivayo’s offer.
“This is a professional performance and people should understand that and move on.
“He is coming here to perform and he is fortunate to be rewarded in this way.
“As an industry, we have been longing for this for many years.
“Having people who are prepared to reward artists like Sir Wicknell is something the industry has been missing for a long time.
“Besides, Mukanya has done a lot to market Zimbabwean music internationally.
“He taught mbira and other traditional instruments overseas, which further cements his status as a cultural icon.”
NACZ’s endorsement of Mukanya’s homecoming has been welcomed by many within the arts sector, who have eagerly awaited his return for years.
The 81-year-old musician, who has publicly expressed his wish to be buried in Zimbabwe, has lived abroad for many years while continuing to perform in neighbouring countries such as South Africa.
Some devoted followers have even travelled to South Africa to attend his concerts because of their enduring love for Chimurenga music.
Back home, his nephew Kurai Makore has kept the Mapfumo legacy alive by staging a series of performances with the Black Lions Band, ensuring the Chimurenga flame continues to burn.
Mukanya is one of the last surviving giants of his generation following the death of music superstar Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi.
For decades, he has been celebrated not only for pioneering Chimurenga music but also for taking Zimbabwean music to the global stage.
