Online Reporter
Takawira “Photovet” Dapi
RISING sungura artiste Tatenda Pinjisi is fighting for his life after being admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital following a fatal road accident, which claimed three lives on Saturday.
His bassist Naison Tembo, drummer-Prosper and a woman passenger they had picked from the Harare Showground and going to Kadoma passed away.
The accident occurred around 7pm just after the Norton tollgate on the Harare-Bulawayo highway.
Pinjisi was behind the wheel as the group travelled to Kadoma where they were scheduled to perform at Muduvuri Jamaya’s Macsherp Leisure Centre.
As of yesterday, the plans were that Tembo and Prosper would be buried today at their respective rural homes.
According to Pinjisi’s elder brother, Forward Pinjisi, Tatenda was still in intensive care.
“Tatenda was involved in a head-on collision with an oncoming Hino truck that tried to overtake another vehicle.
“Tatenda is still in the Intensive Care Unit, on oxygen after sustaining fractures to his thighbone, kneecap, and left arm. All scans of his chest, bones, and head did not find any additional issues.
“He was the one driving and travelling with seven band members and a passenger when the accident occurred. A truck coming from the Chegutu direction attempted to overtake another vehicle, resulting in this fatal collision.”
The other band members, who were injured include Sonboy Chizenga, who suffered facial and back injuries, Kamurungu, who sustained a head injury, and Brajayindi, a dancer who has bruises all over his body.
Simba Saini, a founding chairman of the Zimbabwe Diaspora Musicians based in Cape Town, expressed his sorrow:
“It’s heartbreaking to hear about Tatenda’s fatal accident. This is particularly disturbing as artists struggle to sustain their brands while trying to support their families. Be strong, Tatenda; God saved some of you. This is a time for the musical community to come together, regardless of whether we are rich or poor.”
Saini also thanked the government for improving road conditions across Zimbabwe and stressed the importance of artists avoiding travelling late at night, as it can be dangerous.
A prominent doctor, Johannes Marisa, known for providing free medical treatment to artists, urged the community to support Tatenda during this difficult time.
“There are many costs associated with treating accident injuries, and I encourage the corporate world to step in. Tatenda is a passionate musician who deserves our support. We extend our condolences to the bereaved families as well.
“This accident was not due to poor road conditions but rather driver negligence. It’s crucial for drivers to exercise defensive driving and remain aware of their surroundings. Always be cautious and reduce speed near stationary objects, as accidents can happen unexpectedly.”
