TUKU WAS A FATHER FIGURE, SAYS MUCHANETA

Tafara Chibanda

ENTERTAINER Kessia Masona, popularly known as Muchaneta, says her career would have exploded if national hero, Dr Oliver Mtukudzi, was still alive today.

Muchaneta said Tuku was a father figure who played a pivotal role in shaping a number of careers.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming Oliver Mtukudzi Half Marathon on February 2, where she will serve as the Master of Ceremony, Muchaneta said:

“Dr Oliver Mtukudzi supported my art throughout the years and gave me opportunities to open at his shows, he was a true icon, indeed.

“He became a father figure, who always encouraged me to merge music and acting, just like he did in Neria.

“If he had been alive, my career would have escalated to greater heights.

“Continue to rest in peace, Samanyanga,” she said.

Muchaneta has emceed the marathon for the past three years.

“The marathon serves as an annual commemoration of Dr. Mtukudzi’s contributions to Zimbabwean arts and culture, featuring various activities to celebrate his life and work.

“I feel honoured to be part of keeping his legacy alive and it is also a way of thanking him for the opportunities he gave me and I am happy to be emceeing this event again this year,” she said.