SCORES of people thronged Kwekwe Central Cemetery for the burial of jazz icon, Bob Nyabinde who died on 23 December after a long battle with diabetes.
Even rains that pounded the mining town could not deter people including family members, musicians, music promoters, church members, and fans who came in their numbers to witness the burial of the late musician. One speaker after another kept referring to how The Headmaster, as he was known, led a life worth emulating. Public Service Labour and Social Welfare Minister, July Moyo who represented President Emmerson Mnangagwa described the late musician as an exemplary musician whose life is worth emulating.
“He was a successful and humble musician who proved that you can be successful without using drugs. He proved that an artist can be respected within society without depending on drugs. This is indeed worth emulating for our upcoming artistes,” he said. inister Moyo said the Government will ensure that his biography which was being published at the time of his death will be successfully launched. National Arts Council director Mr Josia Kusena said had it not been for festive holidays, Nyabinde could have been accorded a state-assisted funeral.
“We had written everything to our parent ministry that he be accorded a state-assisted funeral. But due to the festive holidays, most offices are closed. But all the same, the funds will be channelled towards the family once they are released,” said Mr Kusena. She said a fundraising gig would go ahead. “As we are aware we were in the process of organising a gala for him. It will still go ahead in his honour. We’ll also work with relevant authorities for the publication of his biography,” he said. Mr Kusena reiterated the need to shun drug and substance abuse by artists.
Representing promoters, Josh Hozheri said they will keep supporting Nyabinde’s two sons, Agga and Albert who are also into music. “Our doors remain open, we will continue working with you the same way we worked with your father. We worked with Nyabinde, a straightforward individual who never used to cut corners and I wish to continue on the same path,” he said. Hozheri said the biography they are working on as promoters, will be published on Nyabinde’s birthday.
