Harare- Tributes continue to flow for Zimbabwe’s iconic musician Oliver Mtukudzi who passed on aged (66) Wednesday afternoon
Local and international homages have been paid via social media as renowned individuals express their emotions about the passing of a respected legend.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa described the music legend as a true patriot.
“Today we said goodbye to a true patriot. Oliver Mtukudzi, your voice has given us comfort during difficult times, and will remain with us for posterity. Rest in peace comrade” posted President Mnangagwa
Former South African President Jacob Zuma said Tuku’s music united people across borders.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of the legend, Oliver Mtukudzi. His music has carried us through some of our darkest and happiest times, it has also united us across borders. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his family and friends. Zorora murugare, dear Tuku” wrote Jacob Zuma
MDC leader Nelson Chamisa also described Mtukudzi as a father and counsellor.
“To me a father and counsellor. To the nation an advisor and ambassador to generations. To the world, a peace icon bundle of talent, calabash of wisdom. You gave your all to us all. You consoled, counselled and entertained Zimbabwe and beyond. You will be solely missed Samanyanga” wrote Advocate Chamisa
The European Union (EU) delegation and Swedish embassy in Harare also paid tribute to Samanyanga as he was also known.
“Zimbabwe has lost its most memorable voice today. We at the EU delegation are shocked and saddened to hear that @TukuOfficial is no longer with us. Thank you for the music, the memories and difference you made to us and Zimbabwe! Rest In peace!” posted EU
“A star has left us. Our condolences go out to the Mtukudzi family and the nation on the passing on of the legend, superstar Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi. His music, unwavering dedication and commitment in achieving gender equality and ending child marriages will be greatly missed MHSRIP” read the Swedish Embassy twitter post
Below are some of the tributes:
“Devastated by the untimely departure of a fellow Samanyanga. Before his tragic death Mtukudzi had agreed to be on the ZBC board to be announced by Minister Mutsvangwa. We believed he was going to add insight and value on content and entertainment issues. RIP Zhou Samanyanga” Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting services Nick Mangwana
“If anyone ever made me proud to be Zimbabwean it was you,” former Zimbabwean Minister of Education David Coltart said. “Thank you for making us happy for so long, especially during the darkest days”.
“Over the next five hours I’m playing #MyTop10TukuSongs, in no particular order. First out is “Bvongodza Muto” aka “Chimusoro”. My favourite song at my graduating party for my first degree at the University of Southern California in 1981! #RIPSamanyanga” Professor Jonathan Moyo
“A giant of African music has fallen with the passing of legendary Musician, the one and only Oliver Mtukudzi. From the depths of Harare his career blossomed like the flame lily flower and his artistic genius brought us together in good times and gave us hope during our darkest hour” Nathi Mthethwa South African Minister of arts and culture
“Rest in Peace, Oliver Mtukudzi. You were the soundtrack to an entire generation and a rare gift to Zimbabwe. We will always love you, a legend and hero” Fadzayi Mahere
“A hero doesn’t die! A legend doesn’t die! He simply goes home to sleep! With an unmistakable husky voice, a master composer and instrumentalist who possessed an inimitable musical style, Tuku is a legend! Tuku is not dead! Tuku has gone home to rest” Obert Gutu
