Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
FEW Zimbabwean entertainers have reinvented themselves as successfully and consistently as Stephen “Steve” Makoni.
Over the decades, he has worn many hats with remarkable ease, proving that talent, discipline and perseverance can coexist in one extraordinary individual.
Whether on stage or behind the scenes, Makoni has always relentlessly pursued excellence.
His story is a powerful reminder that success is not confined to a single profession.
While many Zimbabweans know him as the celebrated musician behind several timeless hits, his journey extends far beyond music, reflecting a man whose passion for learning and creativity has shaped an inspiring career.
Simply known as Steve Makoni or Dhongi, the veteran entertainer is a man of many talents.
From comedy and theatre to filmmaking and music, Makoni has excelled in virtually every field he has pursued.
Academically gifted, he performed consistently well throughout his studies, eventually becoming a qualified laboratory scientist — a profession he practised at a local pharmacy.
His scientific background reflects the versatility that has defined his remarkable life.
Fans fondly remember him for classics such as “Handiende”, “Zvachonyana”, “Haungadaro” and “Chaenda Nechimwe Chii?”
Beyond his recordings, Makoni possesses an infectious personality that leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets.
Every interaction with him is both exciting and enlightening, as he effortlessly shares the wisdom, humour and life experiences accumulated over a distinguished career.
As a performer, he seamlessly blends comedy with music, creating a stage presence that has endeared him to audiences for decades.
His ability to connect with both strangers and old friends with warmth and authenticity is a rare gift, distinguishing him from many of his contemporaries.
Now 72, Makoni, who is still as fit as a fiddle, has retreated to his family farm in Rusape.
“I spend most of my time here in Rusape, at Farm Number 56, a family business that I now run,” he told the Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“I thoroughly enjoy everything I am doing here because farming is also my passion. I am into horticulture and poultry production, specialising in road-runner chickens. It is a family enterprise and I am glad to be fulfilling my late father’s wish to ensure continuity and productivity at the farm.
“He was an entrepreneur par excellence and I am simply following in his footsteps. My dream is to make him proud.”
Raised in a family of 11 children, the artiste said hard work has been his guiding principle since childhood.
“I am a hard worker who loves his job to bits. I will continue doing my best to ensure that I achieve my dreams . . .”
Reflecting on his academic path, Makoni recalls his formative years.
“I completed my Advanced Level in 1975, studying Biology, Literature and Geography through correspondence. I later trained as a laboratory scientist and worked at Pfizer Pharmacy from 1980 to 1991, while also studying at Harare Polytechnic to further hone my skills. During our time, becoming a professional was everyone’s dream and I can safely say I thoroughly enjoyed my career,” he said.
Meeting Tuku
His musical journey took shape after meeting his late friend, Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi.
“I started playing the guitar while I was still at school and meeting Tuku completely changed my perception of music,” he said.
“We experimented with many things, including theatre and filmmaking. We even formed a theatre company before eventually concentrating on music.
“One of our plays was called ‘My Child’, which was all about celebrating life and having fun back in the day. We had high expectations, but in the end, we decided to focus on music.”
The multi-talented artiste believes his major breakthrough came in the early 1990s.
“My songs ‘Handiende’ and ‘Maidei’ marked my breakthrough. In 1994, ‘Handiende’ was voted one of the year’s best singles — the same year Leonard Zhakata dominated the charts with ‘Maruva Enyika’.”
The popularity of “Handiende” earned Makoni a residency at Midlands Hotel in Gweru, where he performed for two years.
“Between 1994 and 1996, I was in high demand. My brand became so popular that I eventually relocated to Harare, performing at several hotels, including New Ambassador and Monomotapa. My solo performances endeared me to fans and even today, I still miss those moments.”
However, family tragedies in the late 1990s forced him to reconsider his priorities.
“In 1998, I lost my father, and within a year, my brother, Phinius, passed away. Another bereavement followed in 2000, leaving me with no option but to relocate to Rusape in 2002 to take over the family business. Since then, I have been living here and I truly enjoy life. I cannot thank God enough for the gift of life that has allowed me to witness so many more years.”
At the peak of his career, Makoni also toured Europe, particularly England and Sweden, performing for both Zimbabwean and international audiences.
Today, his legacy is measured not just by his recordings or the stages he has graced, but by the inspiration he offers through a life defined by resilience, versatility and excellence.
As Zimbabwe celebrates one of its finest all-round entertainers, his story remains proof to the power of hard work, lifelong learning and an unwavering commitment to one’s craft.
