Bulawayo (New Ziana) – Scores of people gathered at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre on Tuesday to bid farewell to revered heritage scholar, researcher and academic Pathisani Nyathi, who passed away on November 4 at Mater Dei Hospital after battling a recurrent illness.
He was 73.
Known for his expertise in cultural and heritage conservation, Nyathi was honoured with a State-assisted funeral and was laid to rest at the Lady Stanley Cemetery, a resting place for luminaries in the city.
Renowned for his humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to Zimbabwe’s heritage, Nyathi made an indelible mark in safeguarding African culture.
Mourners including family members, friends, archaeologists, academics, students and admirers filled the amphitheatre to pay tribute to his lifelong commitment to preserving African heritage.
His peers said his death has left an indelible void in the cultural and heritage tapestry for Zimbabwe and Africa.
Minister of State for Bulawayo Province Judith Ncube commended the government for honouring Nyathi with a State-assisted funeral, describing him as a living library and archive of Zimbabwe’s history.
“Thus, it goes undisputed that the late uBaba Nyathi was a custodian of our rich culture and heritage.
“The honour given to the late Nyathi comes in recognition of his great contribution in preserving our culture and spirit of Ubuntu in Zimbabwe,” she said.
Ncube conveyed President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s deepest condolences and called for unity, urging Zimbabweans to carry forward Nyathi’s vision.
Zimbabwe Mass Media Trust (ZMMT) board chair, to which Nyathi was a member at the time of hs death, Advocate Honour Mkushi reflected on his invaluable role, describing him as a humble, dependable and esteemed colleague.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Nyathi, a cherished custodian of history and culture whose contributions have enriched us all.
“His dedication to preserving our heritage and his wisdom will be missed by many. May his legacy continue to inspire, and may the Lord comfort his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him,” he said.
Bulawayo City mayor David Coltart announced plans to commemorate Nyathi’s legacy by naming a prominent street in his honour, and establishing a Nyathi Corner in all council libraries to keep his works accessible.
Coltart praised Nyathi for his tireless dedication, highlighting his contributions through the Amagugu Heritage Centre, over 60 books, and newspaper columns.
Indigenous Knowledge and Living Heritage expert at the Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) Professor Jacob Mapara described Nyathi as a true patriot whose works underscored the importance of indigenous knowledge.
“Phatisa has shown that we can’t talk of globalization without bringing our own heritage to the table. He has taken us halfway, now we must carry the load and share what Zimbabwe has to offer,” he said.
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe board member Napoleon Nyanhi praised Nyathi as “a true hero of the arts,” whose profound work enriched Zimbabwe’s cultural and artistic heritage.
“We gleaned from his deep wisdom during his time as a board member of the council from 1999 to 2001,” he said.
Nyanhi noted that it was during Nyathi’s tenure that the council achieved key milestones, including the launch of the National Arts Merit Awards, a ceremony celebrated annually for the past 23 years.
Born in Kezi, Matabeleland South, on July 10, 1951, Nyathi authored over 50 books and contributed in newspaper columns exploring the history, customs, and traditions of the local people.
A widower at the time of his death, he is survived by three children, Sikanyisiwe, Butholezwe Kgosi, and Fikile.
New Ziana
