GOODBYE UK, IT MUST HAVE BEEN LOVE, BUT IT’S OVER. . . Mukanya closes chapter in style

📅 Published: August 26, 2025

Curated by AllZimNews.com

At 80 years-old, Mukanya may not carry the same energy and vibe of his youth but he gave a performance that was both powerful and moving.

Unlike many artists of his age, he did not take to the stage seated or with frequent breaks.

Instead, he stood throughout, delivering his classics, one after the other, with dignity, determination and clear pride in his craft.

That display of stamina alone spoke volumes about his commitment to his art and his refusal to bow to the limitations of age.

The crowd danced and sang along to his beloved hits from years gone by.

The songs carried memories of joy, struggle and national identity for many Zimbabweans.

From the Chimurenga classics that once served as a soundtrack to liberation movements to later songs that reflected everyday life, the palylist was a journey through history.

These included the classics — “Nyoka Musango”, “Gwindingwi Rine Shumba” and “Tongosienda,” among others.

However, what particularly made the evening special was not the music, but the occasion itself.

This was the last time fans would see Mapfumo performing on stage in the UK, a moment both celebratory and bittersweet.

For the older fans, it certainly must have been a nostalgic reminder of their youth, when Mapfumo’s music echoed across townships and villages.

For the younger generations in the crowd, it was a chance to witness living history before it fades into memory.

A poignant moment, in which some fans wiped tears off their drenched cheeks, was when he appeared for the very last time expressing his heartfelt gratitude for their relentless support over the past six decades.

He then gave them one last moment to mingle at close range and the tearful fans queued for a handshake and selfies.

His close family members were also part of the crowd which also included football legends Benjani Mwaruwari, Stewart Murisa, Memory Mucherahowa, Maxwell Dube, Liberty Masunda, Timothy Chirozvani, Mlungisi Ndebele and Musareka Jenitala.