By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
After decades of carrying the heartbeat of Zimbabwe across the world, legendary Chimurenga icon Dr Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo is coming home — not just to perform, but to say goodbye.
The 80-year-old music revolutionary, who has lived in Oregon, United States, for more than a decade, announced that he will return to Zimbabwe this April for his farewell concert, marking the end of his live stage performances.
In a deeply personal video message to Zimbabweans, Mapfumo said his return is about peace, unity and gratitude — a final embrace with the people who shaped his journey.
“Greetings to all Zimbabweans — friends and family. I am Mukanya here in America, Thomas Mapfumo. I told you that I am coming home to say goodbye to you,” he said.
He clarified that while he is retiring from live performances, music will never leave him.
“It does not mean that I am giving up music completely. I will continue to make music, but as for going on stage, I will no longer do that.”
Mapfumo stressed that his message has never been political allegiance, but loyalty to the people.
“We are not political. We are people of the people. I stand alone in my thoughts, and I want all people to unite. If we are not united, we will not succeed. We are one people.”
With the humility that has defined his career, Mukanya invited Zimbabweans to gather not in division, but in joy.
“Come and have a farewell party — to say goodbye to family and friends. Come with joy and enjoy this time together. Without you, we would not have reached where we are today.”
He ended his message with a blessing that blended faith and tradition.
“God and VaDzimu be with you. We are coming in April — the date will be announced.”
Mapfumo, who turns 81 in July, recently held a farewell show in South Africa that sparked debate after he performed while seated. Critics questioned whether age had finally caught up with the Chimurenga pioneer.
But his management was quick to respond.
“Imagine — he is 80 years old now,” said spokesperson Sam Mature. “He flew straight from the US and went directly into rehearsals and family visits. The jet lag was overwhelming, but he never asked to rest.”
Despite the physical toll, Mataure said the performance remained powerful.
“Overall, it was a dignified and moving farewell.”
As April approaches, Mukanya’s return is shaping up to be more than a concert.
It is a homecoming, a reunion, and a final salute from a man whose music gave voice to struggle, pride and unity — and whose last request is simple: that Zimbabweans stand together as one.
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