Story by Collette Musanyera
A funeral service for mbira icon, Mbuya Stella Chiweshe has been held in Harare, ahead of burial in Bindura on Tuesday.
It was a service meant to celebrate the best of them all when it comes to mbira music and it was only befitting for her daughter, Virginia Mukwesha Hatze to bid farewell to the revered musician through traditional songs and the mbira instrument.
It was also a fulfilment of the late mbira heavyweight’s wish for traditional music to be the only soundtrack at her funeral.
“My mother was not into Christianity. She believed in spirit mediums, that is why the Chaplain did not say any prayers. My mother was a treasure not only to our family, but to the whole nation. She was loved by many. A lot of young people used to consult her for advice and she was always ready to assist. She performed at various stages around the world. We will forever cherish her works,” said Virginia.
A music gala has also been lined up this Monday in Bindura where mbira musicians will celebrate the late artiste.
“The music fraternity has lost an icon and the void she has left will not easy to fill. Her burial is set for tomorrow and tonight several mbira musicians will be performing in Bindura to celebrate the icon,” National Arts Council of Zimbabwe director, Dr Nicholas Moyo said.
Mbuya Chiweshe’s body has been taken to Nekate Village in Mashonaland Central Province ahead of burial this Tuesday.
