Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and sungura star Alick Macheso led heartfelt tributes for Tatenda Pinjisi, who tragically passed away on Sunday from injuries sustained in a road accident near Norton on Friday.
He was 34.
In this unfortunate incident, two of his band members and a female passenger they picked up at the Harare Showgrounds also lost their lives. In the wake of his death, the NACZ expressed their condolences to Pinjisi’s family, stating, “We are deeply heartbroken by the passing of Tatenda Pinjisi, a luminary of the sungura genre whose vibrant rhythms and soul-stirring melodies became the heartbeat of countless admirers.
“On Friday, Tatenda and his band were involved in a road accident that claimed the life of his bassist, Naison Tembo, and two others in the other vehicle.
“Tatenda has been hospitalised since that day. As we grieve this immense loss, may we find solace in the legacy he leaves behind: a treasure trove of songs that will forever ignite joy and unity in the hearts of those who cherished him.”
Alick Macheso, devastated by the news, learnt of Pinjisi’s passing during a family show at Jongwe Corner in Harare on Sunday night.
“It’s sad to announce that Tatenda Pinjisi is no more. I just received this message, and we are praying for his family to remain strong during these trying times,” Macheso announced to the crowd.
Gospel diva Dorcas Moyo shared her condolences online, describing Pinjisi as a rare talent:
“It is with a heavy heart that I say goodnight to my dear brother, Tatenda Pinjisi. Your laughter and kindness will forever be etched in my memory.
“I will always cherish your calls and messages that uplifted me. You had a unique way of making everyone feel seen and loved, and your absence will leave a void that can never be filled. Thank you for being such a wonderful brother to me and a friend to many.”
Tendai Dembo, a close friend, expressed his sorrow on Facebook:
“Early Saturday morning, around 3 a.m., I received a text and video about my younger brother Tatenda Pinjisi after his accident. Two of his band members died on the spot. I knew he was a fighter, but now I hear that one of my close friends in the industry has left us. I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and brother. Tatenda, may you rest in peace.”
Music producer Gibson Makumbe also shared his grief: “But why, God? Tatenda Pinjisi is no more. I can’t believe this. I am in pain. We had just started a project of 12 songs together. The SAINA hitmaker is gone . . . so sad.”
Dendera musicians Suluman Chimbetu added, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of fellow musician Tatenda Pinjisi, who succumbed to injuries from a road accident.
“Heartfelt condolences to the Pinjisi family, his brother Howard Pinjisi, and the families of the other victims. May their souls rest in peace.”
Phenomenal producer Lyton Ngolomi, who collaborated with Pinjisi on his last album titled “Mutoriro,” expressed his sorrow: “Nhai Tatenda Pinjisi, mzaya wangu, was our last album ‘Mutoriro’ a goodbye? RIP, my nephew, and to the others who have passed, I am heartbroken.”
Fellow musician Obert Chari, who was working with Pinjisi on a 12-track album, lamented the loss: “We were planning a project, unaware that God had other plans. Even though you are gone, I will finish the work we started. Rest in peace; your legacy will live on.”
Gospel artiste and preacher Obey Mukanhairi shared heartfelt words:
“If I have ever been pained, Tatenda Pinjisi was family to me—humble, down-to-earth, and someone I could call anytime. His death is a profound loss. We prayed and fasted when we heard about your hospitalization.”
United Kingdom based musician Romeo Gasa expressed his grief on Facebook:
“Rest in peace, Vakomana, you have hurt us deeply.” Australian jiti musician Cozzy Kozile echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is so sad, Tatenda Pinjisi, my guy. You were an inspiration to many. Rest in power, my brother.”
Somandla “Mafia” Ndebele, who mentored Pinjisi, remarked on his talent: “He was a fine young man, and it’s tragic that we lost him at such a young age.”
Gospel musician Munyaradzi Munodawafa expressed regret over unfulfilled plans: “I am devastated by your death. We were planning to collaborate, but I kept procrastinating. I am gutted.”
Burial arrangements are yet to be announced.
Pinjisi is survived by his three sons, and mourners have gathered at his homestead in Ruwa.
Family spokesperson Howard Pinjisi said they were devastated by the loss.
“We are still at hospital awaiting postmortem results. Mourners are gathered in Ruwa and we hope to make an announcement about his burial as soon as possible,” said Howard, who is also a musician.
