Antony Chawagarira
HARARE – Chimurenga music legend Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo has returned to Zimbabwe after spending several years in self-exile and received a warm welcome from government officials and tourism authorities.
Mapfumo arrived in the country today and was welcomed by Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Anselem Sanyatwe; Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Tino Machakaire; Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Monica Mutsvangwa; and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Chief Executive Officer Dr George Manyaya, among other officials.
Minister Machakaire described Mapfumo as an icon whose contribution to Zimbabwean music, culture, and national identity remains deeply treasured.
“When we heard that one of our national music legends, Dr. Thomas ‘Mukanya’ Mapfumo, was arriving today, we agreed that such an icon deserved a grand welcome home,” Minister Machakaire said in a statement posted on social media.
“I was honoured to join Minister Monica ‘Mai Mukanya’ Mutsvangwa, Hon. Sanyatwe, Dr George Manyaya from Tourism, and others in welcoming this legendary son of Zimbabwe. Welcome home, Mukanya. Welcome home, Soko. Your contribution to Zimbabwean music, culture, and identity remains deeply treasured,” he said.
Mapfumo, whose Chimurenga music has earned him international recognition, spent several years outside Zimbabwe after leaving the country amid political tensions.
His return comes as he prepares to perform at the wedding of fellow musician Jah Prayzah.
He is also expected to perform at a private function hosted by businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
Mapfumo’s return has generated considerable interest in Zimbabwe’s music and cultural circles, given his longstanding contributions to Chimurenga music and the country’s cultural identity.
