Nyabinde’s death, great loss to creative industry

KWEKWE — The Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, says the passing on Afro Jazz icon, Bob Nyabinde, is a great loss to the creative industry.

Nyabinde succumbed to diabetes in Harare where he was now based with his family and backing group, Savanna Drive. He was laid to rest at the Kwekwe Central Cemetery next to his wife Margaret who died in 2007.

He died at the age of 68.

Speaking after the burial of Nyabinde, the Midlands provincial officer Reward Shockson said: “The passing on of Bob Nyabinde is a great loss to the Creative Industry sector. As Midlands we honoured him while he was still alive. Kwekwe District you played a key role in honouring The Headmaster. As Ministry and government at large, we can stand tall and claim our role. Thank you once again.”

President Emmerson Mnangagwa also joined the nation in mourning the late multi-talented music icon and educationist, Bob Nyabinde.

President Mnangagwa, through the Public Service Labour and Social Welfare Minister, July Moyo, gave the Nyabinde family $500 cash as chema. Ministers Moyo and Owen Ncube also chipped in with $500 each.

The President and Minister Ncube however, did not attend the burial of Nyabinde as they were attending another function in Zvishavane.

I have been sent by President Mnangagwa to represent him since he is officiating at another function.

He however, gave me $500 cash and me and Minister Moyo we will also give the family $500. Minister of Sport and Culture is also not in attendance because of the holiday.

He said it was unfortunate that Nyabinde died before the launch of his Biography which was being compiled by veteran journalist Munyaradzi Huni with the support of renowned Zimbabwe Music Promoters Association president Josh Hozheri.

He paid tribute to Nyabinde for including him in his biology.

The biography will however, be launched on Nyabinde’s 69th birthday on March 10, 2024. Minister Moyo said the late headmaster sang for the church and the nation at large.

He described Nyabinde as a music hero and people’s hero.

Daisy Mtukudzi, the wife of the late national hero and music icon Oliver Mtukudzi and the Director National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, Josia Kusena also attended the burial of Nyabinde.

Some of the artists who attended the burial are, Bantuman I, Hope Masike, Derick Mpofu, Mono Mukundu, Sulumani Chimbetu, Amini Jamanda, Eunice Magumbo, Yasin Yasin, Traver the One, Terrybliss, and Jerry Guduza.