Mutoko – The rural home of the late sungura musician Tatenda Pinjisi in Mutoko was yesterday the scene of an emotional and grand farewell, as mourners from across Zimbabwe gathered to pay their last respects to the talented artist. Pinjisi, whose real name was Tatenda Proud Kahwa, tragically passed away on Sunday at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare, succumbing to multiple fractures sustained in a car accident the previous Friday. He was only 34 years old.
News of Pinjisi’s death sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes, with many recognising his significant contribution to Zimbabwean music and his role in putting Mutoko on the map through his exceptional talent. The atmosphere at his burial in Kahwa Village was a testament to the high regard in which he was held.
Howard Pinjisi, a cousin of the late musician and family spokesperson, expressed the family’s gratitude to everyone who had offered support during this difficult time. “We are grateful to all the people who supported us. The event went according to plan. It was encouraging to see people from all walks of life coming to support us,” he said.
The funeral wake and burial united various stakeholders in the music industry, highlighting the respect and admiration Pinjisi commanded. Musicians, arts promoters, and representatives from royalty collecting associations stood shoulder to shoulder with fans and villagers to honour his memory.
Among the notable figures in attendance were award-winning music promoter Partson “Chipaz” Chimbodza, philanthropist Wanisayi “Mahwindo” Mutandwa, King David (formerly Baba Harare), Tendai Dembo, and Pastor Charles Charamba. Fellow musicians such as Mupositiro Muchetu, Ammi Jamanda, Percy Masendeke, Chikomana Shaddy, Biggers Wakapihwa, and Wabvuwi also joined the mourners.
Chipaz, who acted as a father figure to Pinjisi, spoke on behalf of arts promoters, emphasising their commitment to supporting the bereaved families. “The programme went smoothly, and as promoters, we did our part,” he said. “We have assisted the bereaved families with two beasts and 100 kg of mealie meal during this time of mourning. We urge the family to find comfort from the Lord during these trying times.”
Pastor Charamba, himself hailing from Mudzi near Mutoko in Mashonaland East, delivered a moving address, urging mourners to find solace and strength in God. “Real talent like this comes from God, which is every reason why we should place our faith in Jesus,” he said.
Representatives from the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) and the Zimbabwe Council of Copyrights (ZICCO) were also present to pay their respects. ZIMURA was represented by vice chairperson First Farai and other staff members, while ZICCO board member Tendai Chiraya expressed his emotion at the solidarity shown by the music community.
“Tatenda Pinjisi was a man of the people, judging by the attendance at his burial today,” said Chiraya. “He loved his music, and we hope his family finds the comfort they deserve.”
ZIMURA board member Alexio Gwenzi praised Pinjisi as an active member who valued his intellectual property. “He was a gifted singer, songwriter, and performer. Tatenda’s loss is deeply felt by the Sungura community and the wider music industry,” said Gwenzi. “By recognising the value of his creative work, Tatenda wisely registered with ZIMURA to ensure the protection and management of his intellectual property and copyright.”
Gwenzi added that Pinjisi’s foresight extended to his family, as his registration would provide continued benefits for his dependents. ZIMURA is assisting Pinjisi’s family during this difficult time, providing support that includes a casket, transportation to Mutoko for the burial, a tent, and essential groceries, as part of their partnership with Nyaradzo Funeral Services.
ZICCO Chief Executive Officer Tafadzwa Masembura emphasised that Pinjisi’s death had brought together various stakeholders, and his association provided transportation and refreshments for mourners. “We have organised a team that has already mobilised musicians without transportation to get help from us,” said Masembura. “Transportation is free for our members and those from other royalty-collecting associations in Zimbabwe. Transport will be available at our Harare offices and is meant for all musicians willing to travel to Mutoko to bury our brother Tatenda Pinjisi.”
Masembura praised musicians for supporting each other during these challenging times and vowed to contribute to Pinjisi’s burial. “We will also provide refreshments, ensuring he benefits from us. As ZICCO, we always stand with other musicians and royalty collectors during such trying times. We even offer support to those who are not our members because we want the industry to grow,” he emphasised.
The day began with poignant scenes at Kahwa Village in Katsukunya, as friends, family, and music enthusiasts gathered to honour Pinjisi. The event was filled with music and dance, with Talking Guitars taking to the stage to perform renditions from various bands. They were joined by notable musicians, including Mupositiro Muchetu, Ammi Jamanda, Percy Masendeke, Chikomana Shaddy, Biggers Wakapihwa, Baba Charamba, and Wabvuwi. Itai Chitewe, a mentor to Pinjisi, delivered an uplifting performance that helped ease the somber mood. Musician and event management guru Sarah Dee followed with an emotional tribute through energetic dances.
Pinjisi will be best remembered for his 2015 hit “Saina” from his debut album “Rumbidzo,” which catapulted him to fame. He was hailed as a peace-loving musician who got along well with other artists of his generation. The outpouring of love and support at his funeral is a testament to the impact he had on those who knew him and his music.
Many international tours were planned for the talented composer, choreographer, and entrepreneur before his untimely death. He defied odds by experimenting with new beats to develop his own sound, commanding a huge following locally.
Pinjisi is survived by three sons. His legacy as a sungura game-changer and a unifying force in the Zimbabwean music industry will undoubtedly live on.
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