HARARE – A somber cloud has settled over the vibrant world of Zimbabwean sungura music, as a series of debilitating illnesses and misfortunes have struck key figures within Alick “Ba Shero” Macheso’s renowned Orchestra Mberikwazvo. From a former manager’s life-altering amputation to the tragic blindness of a veteran guitarist and the recurring health battles of other long-serving members, the band’s inner circle is grappling with profound challenges, prompting concern from fans and a heartfelt commitment to support from Macheso himself.
The gravity of the situation was recently underscored by the plight of Jethro Machanja, Macheso’s former manager. Machanja, a 53-year-old who dedicated 15 years to Orchestra Mberikwazvo between year 2000 and 2015, recently underwent a left leg amputation at Chitungwiza Central Hospital. His battle with diabetes, first diagnosed in 2013, escalated dramatically in the six months leading up to the surgery, causing him unbearable pain. Machanja had served as assistant manager under William Tsandukwa before taking the helm of the band’s management.
Speaking from his hospital ward, Machanja issued a poignant appeal to the public, emphasising the critical importance of proactive health management. “My appeal to Zimbabweans is that we should get regular health tests for things like diabetes and BP,” he stated. He further advised, “If we are diagnosed with either BP or diabetes, we should always follow the advice of the medical experts.”
Reflecting on the perceived increase in such ailments, he mused, “I’m sure these illnesses are caused by some of the foods that we eat today because in the past we did not have such illnesses or, when we had them, they were not this severe.”
He expressed profound gratitude for his family’s unwavering support, saying, “I want to commend my family, especially my wife and kids, for the support that they have given me throughout my suffering.” He also acknowledged the morale boost from former colleagues, adding, “I also want to thank mukoma Tsandukwa and Kireni Zulu for coming to give me morale support here in hospital.”
The misfortunes extend deep into the current lineup of Orchestra Mberikwazvo, casting a long shadow over their performances. Sungura maestro Alick Macheso has openly voiced his deep concern over the growing number of his band members battling various health issues, which he fears could silence the music that has defined their lives. During a recent performance in Harare, Macheso’s usual energetic smile was replaced by a visible hint of worry as dancer Selemani “Majuicy” Mpochi made a brief, non-performing appearance on stage after a month-long absence.
Macheso addressed his fans directly, explaining Majuicy’s condition. “Those who have been asking about Majuicy’s whereabouts, you have seen him. But he is not here to perform, he is still unwell, makumbo ake achiri akamubata and the doctor said he should get enough rest. Hanzi mabhonzo haasi kuita zvakanaka,” Macheso explained, indicating that Majuicy’s legs were still troubling him and that his bones were not healing properly. Majuicy is reportedly battling swollen legs, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which have severely impacted his ability to perform.
Even more heartbreaking is the story of Tafi Nyamunda, a veteran guitarist for Orchestra Mberikwazvo, who has tragically lost his sight and is now completely blind. Nyamunda’s world changed drastically with a sudden loss of vision, a condition that initially left him grappling with fear, confusion, and even suicidal thoughts. Despite this profound challenge, Nyamunda continues to perform with the band, relying on the support of his fellow musicians to navigate the stage.
The list of ailing band members continues with Lucky Mumiriki, another long-serving guitarist, whose health struggles have been particularly persistent. Mumiriki suffered a stroke in 2011, which forced him to stop performing. Although there were hopes for his recovery, Macheso revealed that the stroke had unfortunately recurred.
“At one point we thought Lucky Mumiriki had recovered but stroke yacho yakabva yamurova futi. It’s something that always gets me worried,” Macheso shared, highlighting the recurring nature of Mumiriki’s health battles and the constant concern it brings.
Vocalist Elton Muropa has also been conspicuously absent from the stage for several months due to illness. Macheso expressed hope for his return, saying, “There is also Elton Muropa who has been ill for some time now. We just hope and pray that he recovers and joins the rest of the team.” The band eagerly awaits Muropa’s recovery and his return to the stage.
Adding to the string of misfortunes is Taurai Miti, affectionately known as Ponda Ponda, who now uses a wheelchair. Miti was involved in a road traffic accident around 2020, during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, which left him with mobility issues. Despite these hardships, Macheso has remained a steadfast pillar of support for his bandmates.
Macheso’s commitment to the welfare of his Orchestra Mberikwazvo family is evident in his actions. He has been providing continuous assistance to all these band members, including Mumiriki, who last performed with the band over a decade ago.
“We will continue trying our best to make sure that their welfare is being taken care of. Of course we might fail to do everything asi chishuwo ndechekuti mhuri dzavo dzirarame. Tafi (Nyamunda) we tried to our best to restore his sight but it’s unfortunate. Mwari vakaita kuda kwavo,” Macheso told H-Metro, expressing his desire to ensure their families are provided for and acknowledging the unfortunate outcome of efforts to restore Nyamunda’s sight, placing his faith in God’s will. This dedication highlights not only his leadership but also his deep sense of responsibility towards those who have contributed to his musical success.
Ponda Ponda himself attested to Macheso’s unwavering support. “Since I was involved in an accident during the Covid-19 period, mdhara Macheso has been taking care of me. From rentals, food and a lot of other issues,” Ponda Ponda revealed. He further added, “He is not doing this only to me, but all the other guys who are not well. I also want to thank his management for understanding and still consider us as part of them.” This statement underscores the profound impact of Macheso’s generosity and the strong bond within the band.
Some fans have speculated that the band’s rigorous performance schedule might be a contributing factor to the health issues faced by its members. The demanding nature of touring and live performances can take a toll on musicians, leading to fatigue and increased susceptibility to illness. However, Macheso’s proactive approach to supporting his ailing colleagues demonstrates a profound sense of loyalty and care that transcends the professional realm.
Beyond the medical explanations and the rigours of a demanding career, a darker, more mystical interpretation has begun to circulate among some observers and fans. Whispers of “juju” or spiritual interference as the root cause of these misfortunes have emerged, reflecting a deep-seated cultural belief in the supernatural. This sentiment finds an eerie echo in Alick Macheso’s own lyrics from his song “Baba naMai,” where he sings, “Kana paine akashinhwa akaromba chikwambo. Ngaabude pachena chidzorerwe kumwene wacho. Chinopedza dzinza.” (If there is anyone who has used black magic or consulted a witchdoctor for a goblin, let them come out openly so it can be returned to its owner. It destroys generations.) While Macheso himself has not publicly endorsed such theories, the recurrence and severity of these ailments among his closest associates have undeniably fuelled these speculative narratives, adding another layer of complexity to the band’s ongoing struggles.
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