Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
THE year 2025 will be as much remembered for its huge milestones in the creative sector as the final farewells to its icons.
Across Zimbabwe and the world, the creative and entertainment industries were shaken by the passing of foundational icons — artistes, musicians, photographers and storytellers who defined genres and generations.
The world has been left poorer, reflecting on the legacies they left behind.
Among the most significant losses of the year is undoubtedly Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, the legendary godfather of Sungura music, who succumbed to diabetes on December 11 at Chitungwiza Central Hospital at the age of 69.
He was laid to rest at a family shrine in Chiweshe, Mashonaland Central province.
Known by monikers such as “Senior Lecturer”, “Professor” and “Sungura Godfather”, Madzibaba was hailed as a creative genius who left an indelible mark on the music industry.
His protégés, including sungura ace Alick Macheso, were left devastated by his demise.
Many described him as a mentor, father figure and hero.
Several icons, including Macheso, Fanuel “System” Tazvida, Cephas Karushanga and Simon Mutambi, among others, passed through his hands.
Another significant loss was that of veteran photographer Bester Kanyama, who passed away on August 19 at the age of 93 after a long illness.
Kanyama made a name for himself as both a photographer and researcher in the 50s.
He left an indelible mark with his dedication to his work.
During the colonial era, he worked for the Daily News, which served as a mouthpiece for the rising nationalism in the country.
In addition to the Daily News, he contributed to publications such as Parade magazine. The former presidential photographer was celebrated as an icon for his boldness and fearlessness.
He captured poignant memories during the liberation struggle, and many will forever remember him for representing his community in Highfield, Harare.
In September, the nation mourned the loss of photographer Calvin Dondo, who passed away at Mvurwi Hospital.
Dondo, who had been unwell for some time, died at the age of 62.
His death came barely a month after the nation was still reeling from the losses of other photographers — Kanyama and James Jemwa — adding to grief in the creative sector.
Earlier in April, the nation was plunged into deep mourning after the death of Charles “Marabha” Mapalume.
The celebrated actor and comedian, who had long battled health challenges, died at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital due to kidney and liver complications.
He was laid to rest at Zinyengere Cemetery in Epworth, near Harare, where hundreds of fans and fellow entertainers paid tribute to his timeless performances.
Known for his iconic roles alongside Freddy “Kapfupi” Manjalima, Marabha’s talent brought laughter and social commentary to both screens and streets.
As one of the pioneers of street theatre, Marabha was a well-known actor who left behind a legacy to be cherished for years.
He effortlessly cracked jokes, showcasing laughter as a form of therapy.
Also in April, tragedy struck again when gospel singer Tatenda Pinjisi died on April 11 after a fatal road accident.
Pinjisi, who had steadily carved a name for himself in Zimbabwe’s gospel music circles, was buried in Kahwa village, Mutoko.
He was widely mourned by gospel fans and fellow artistes, many of whom remembered him as a young man with a powerful voice and a deep spiritual message.
On June 5, the gospel industry was also struck by the passing of Siphethangani “Pastor Barak” Sibanda, who died after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was buried in Umvutsha Park Cemetery, also known as Mvutshwa cemetery, in Bulawayo.
Clancy Mbirimi, a legendary Zimbabwean bassist, guitarist, composer and producer, was another loss.
Known for his long career with iconic bands like The Harare Mambos and Mbare Trio, and for his mentorship and significant contributions to Zimbabwean music, he sadly passed away on June 28, 2025, leaving a rich legacy.
He was a vital part of the local music scene for decades, working at Metro Studios and Hidensity Records, and producing for artistes like Chiwoniso Maraire and Bob Nyabinde. His death was considered a great loss to the industry.
July brought more heartbreak as veteran actor and comedian Fanuel “Firimoni” Tonganayi passed away following stomach complications.
He was buried at his rural home in Rusape, where his contributions to Zimbabwean drama and television were celebrated by both rural and urban communities.
His character “Firimoni” in the Gringo drama series had become a household name in local skits and sitcoms.
In the same month, the entertainment industry lost another gem, Samuel “Sam” Chagumachinyi, who died after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Known for his charisma and contributions to community empowerment through the arts, Sam’s body was returned to Mutare, his hometown, for burial, honouring his family’s wishes.
In September, the comedy and broadcasting world lost Babongile Sikhonjwa, who died due to breathing complications.
Better known as “Ndebele Rockstar”, the former Star FM presenter died at the age of 49, leaving the entertainment industry and fans in shock after collapsing at a friend’s home.
He was buried at his rural homestead in Molwezi, Gwanda.
Babongile was loved not only for his quick wit but also for his powerful radio presence.
His voice became a companion to many, and his ability to blend comedy with current affairs earned him a loyal fan base.
On the international scene, the world also bid farewell to famous icons, including music legends.
For example, Oscar winners Robert Redford, Diane Keaton and Gene Hackman were among those who died this year, along with music stars such as Brian Wilson, who co-founded The Beach Boys, and neo-soul pioneer D’Angelo.
Popular reggae singer Jimmy Cliff was a musical artiste who helped bring reggae to an international audience.
He was known for hits including “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, his covers of “Hakuna Matata” and “I Can See Clearly Now”, and the title track from the seminal film “The Harder They Come”.
Also, former WWE wrestling star Hulk Hogan died in July at the age of 71.
Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died of acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack.
Further, on December 14, Rob Reiner and his wife, producer Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in an apparent homicide at their Brentwood, California, home.
The Princess Bride director was 78 and his wife was 68.
Similarly, The Mask and Pulp Fiction star Peter Greene was found dead in his Lower East Side apartment in New York City on December 12.
He was 60.
British author Sophie Kinsella, who wrote the novel Confessions of a Shopaholic, died at age 55 following her 2022 diagnosis with an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Her family confirmed news of her death via Instagram on December. 10.
As the year 2026 approaches, the comfort lie in this truth: Their demise is not the end of their performance.
It is a passing of the baton.
Their lives are a reminder that creativity, faith and joy are immortal, living on through every chord played in their style, every story told in their spirit and every heart they touched.
