Antony Chawagarira
CHIMURENGA music legend Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo is expected to return to Zimbabwe on October 1 ahead of two high-profile engagements that will reportedly earn him a combined US$1 million.
The veteran musician is set to perform at sungura star Jah Prayzah’s wedding and businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s birthday celebrations.
Mapfumo’s return comes after weeks of speculation surrounding the reported deal, with social media claims suggesting that the musician had either rejected the offer or that the agreement had collapsed.
Sources in Mukanya’s camp said preparations for the two performances are continuing, and Mapfumo is expected to arrive in Harare on October 1.
The musician is reportedly set to receive US$500,000 for each of the two performances, making the deal a major talking point in Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry.
Mapfumo previously confirmed his participation in the two events through a video message, putting to rest speculation over whether he would return to Zimbabwe for the engagements.
“I am coming to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding and Wicknell Chivayo’s birthday,” he said.
Some members of his Blacks Unlimited band are also expected to travel to Zimbabwe ahead of the performances, while others are reportedly already in the country.
Some of the band members, including backing vocalists, had been working with Mapfumo’s nephew, Kurai Makore. However, it was not immediately clear whether they would be part of the band for the upcoming shows.
The reported US$1 million deal has generated considerable interest because of both the amount involved and Mapfumo’s stature in Zimbabwean music.
Mapfumo, who has been based in the United States for years, remains closely associated with Chimurenga music, a genre that has become an important part of Zimbabwe’s musical heritage.
His expected homecoming has therefore added further anticipation to the two private celebrations, with music followers eager to see the veteran performer back on a local stage.
The reported agreement was first thrust into the spotlight in July when New Ziana reported that Mapfumo was considering the offer. The publication later reported that he had accepted US$500,000 for each engagement.
With his October 1 arrival now reportedly lined up, attention has shifted from speculation over whether Mukanya would return to preparations for his first performances in Zimbabwe under the much-discussed deal.
