Tributes have been pouring in from across the world mourning the passing of Zimbabwean music maestro Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi.
Leading the pack is Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa who mourned Mtukudzi as a true patriot.
“Today we said goodbye to a true patriot. Oliver Mtukudzi, your voice has given us comfort during difficult times, and will remain with us for posterity. Rest in peace comrade,” wrote Mnangagwa.
Uganda’s Kizza Besigye made mention of Mtukudzi’s song Wasakara and said it was not only ringing true, but that it was an ideal song for Uganda.
“He used music to fight both White & Black minority rule in Zimbabwe. His song WASAKERA, meaning “You’re too old” that was banned in Zimbabwe in 2001, is highly needed in Uganda today! Fare thee well Freedom Fighter,” Besigye tweeted.
Read: Zimbabwean legendary singer Oliver Mtukudzi dies at 66
On his part, Kenya’s Opposition chief Raila Odinga said that the Todii hit maker will be greatly missed and his death was a blow to the continent.
“Your question rendered in lyrics, What Shall We Do? May still have no answer. But be assured Africa and the world are struggling with it even as we accept the finality of your death. We will miss your enthralling performances and salute you. Rest in peace Oliver Mtudukuzi,” added Raila.
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The legendary singer, who died from diabetes on Wednesday aged 66, will be laid to rest in Madziva, Mashonaland Central, on Sunday, the family said.
Madziva is 40km from Bindura on the Mt Darwin road.
“These are Oliver’s express wishes. He wanted to be buried amongst his ancestors,” a family spokesman said.
One of Mtukudzi’s biggest hits was “Neria,” a mournful song about the tribulations of a woman who was thrown into poverty when her husband died because customary law did not allow her to inherit his property. It was the title song of a movie of the same name.
