Musician Chief Hwenje is facing the toughest battle of his life after being diagnosed with cancer
Chief Hwenje, born Admire Sanyanga Sibanda, was diagnosed with lymphoma, a form of blood cancer that affects the immune system. The 37-year-old artist, known for his energetic stage performances and signature dreadlocks, has retreated to his rural home in Shanyura village to focus on healing away from the public eye.
The cancer diagnosis has had a significant impact on his health, forcing him to cut off his iconic locks and undergo critical surgery and treatment. The musician spoke to Sunday post: “The lymphomas have spread throughout my body and doctors have recommended surgery to remove some of them before they develop further. I am in pain and sometimes the attacks are so severe that I cannot move or talk.”
Once a tremendously vital figure, Chief Hwenje is now a shadow of his former self, struggling with weight loss and the debilitating effects of his illness. His deteriorating condition has forced him to cancel several shows, and for the few shows he managed to perform, he relied heavily on pain medications.
“It hurts to see fans asking for more while my body can’t deliver. Some promoters and fans think I have a big head, but they don’t understand what I’m going through. Sometimes I have to take extra medication to stay on stage.”
