Mafika, The Mbira Maestro Dies

He died at Parirenyatwa Hospital after an operation to remove a clot from his brain. Two months ago journalist and artist, Nowell Zwangendaba passed away at the same hospital.

Mafika toured Europe and taught mbira in several music institutions, making him popular and received a lot of support from especially Germany where he had a big following.

Playing the nyunga-nyunga, the mbira maestro was a permanent feature at Book Cafe and Mannenburg where his nimble fingers and velvet voice had the audience marvelling.

His fusion with other global rhythms such as RnB, roots reggae, hip-hop and South African influences such as mbaqanga in some of his musical stops has catapulted him to international exposure and discovery.

Mafika had been working on his new album titled, “Black to Colour.”

Mafika worked with about everyone that matters in the music industry in Zimbabwe. He had one album, Dzimwe Nguva, to his name and worked with artists including Alexio, Willom Tight and the late Sam Mtukudzi.

Condolences poured from all over the country with Pritchard Chad Mhako bemoaning the sudden death: “From 1983 to 2011.. Takunda Mafika ‘s life cut short. Rest in peace my brother I remember him sitting in my office before his departure to Rome. The brother was just humble to say the least.”

Media student Pride Gonde said: “Taku you pained me. You have gone but all I know is that your music will stay forever just like your young bro Sam Mtukudzi.

Loice Majora wrote: “God has a purpose in every decision he makes but your character and talent can never be replaced therefore rest in peace and may your guardian angel lead you.”