News / National
Mnangagwa praise singer diagnosed with cancer?
20 Nov 2024 at 14:38hrs | Views
Chief Shumba Hwenje, a musician closely associated with Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu PF party and reportedly a relative of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, born Admire Sanyanga Sibanda, has retreated to his rural home in Shanyura village, Mapanzure, Midlands Province, as he grapples with a challenging health crisis.
The 37-year-old artist, known for his hits "Vote Mnangagwa," and "Dhakota Rondeya" is battling lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic and immune systems.
The illness has taken a severe toll on Chief Hwenje, leaving him visibly frail and significantly impacting his daily life. As part of his preparation for critical medical interventions, including surgery and treatment, the musician made the difficult choice to shave off his signature dreadlocks - a hallmark of his identity and artistry.
In a heartfelt interview with The Sunday Mail, Chief Hwenje opened up about his struggle, describing how the disease has left him in excruciating pain, often rendering him unable to walk or speak.
"The lymphomas have spread throughout my body, and doctors recommended cutting to remove some of them, lest they continue to develop into cancer.
"I am in pain, and sometimes the attacks are so dire that I cannot even move or talk," he shared.
Struggles On and Off Stage
Chief Hwenje's condition has severely impacted his career, forcing him to cancel at least eight scheduled shows. For the few performances he has managed, he has relied heavily on painkillers to push through, but even then, the pain often overwhelms him, cutting sets short.
This has strained his relationship with promoters and fans, some of whom misinterpret his struggles as unreliability or arrogance.
"It pains me to watch fans calling for more when my body feels weak and cannot deliver. Sometimes I break down in secret backstage; the world does not understand what I am going through," he said.
"Some promoters and fans think I've become big-headed, yet what I'm going through is beyond that. In some instances, when they change my performing time, I am forced to take more medication."
Personal and Professional Setbacks
Last year, Chief Hwenje received a luxury car and a promise of US$50,000 from businessman Wicknell Chivayo to assist in purchasing a house. However, the funds are yet to be delivered, adding financial stress to his already difficult situation.
The singer's health has also stalled his musical projects. His highly anticipated eight-track album, Chiedza chaSamere, initially set for release in December, has been postponed until next year due to his inability to work in the studio.
A Plea for Understanding and Support
Chief Hwenje's health battle has highlighted the challenges faced by public figures dealing with private struggles. As he prepares for surgery and treatment, he seeks solace in the tranquil environment of his rural home, hoping to rebuild his strength and return to the stage.
For his fans and supporters, Chief Hwenje remains a beacon of resilience, with many rooting for his recovery and eagerly anticipating his return to music.
The 37-year-old artist, known for his hits "Vote Mnangagwa," and "Dhakota Rondeya" is battling lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic and immune systems.
The illness has taken a severe toll on Chief Hwenje, leaving him visibly frail and significantly impacting his daily life. As part of his preparation for critical medical interventions, including surgery and treatment, the musician made the difficult choice to shave off his signature dreadlocks - a hallmark of his identity and artistry.
In a heartfelt interview with The Sunday Mail, Chief Hwenje opened up about his struggle, describing how the disease has left him in excruciating pain, often rendering him unable to walk or speak.
"The lymphomas have spread throughout my body, and doctors recommended cutting to remove some of them, lest they continue to develop into cancer.
"I am in pain, and sometimes the attacks are so dire that I cannot even move or talk," he shared.
Struggles On and Off Stage
Chief Hwenje's condition has severely impacted his career, forcing him to cancel at least eight scheduled shows. For the few performances he has managed, he has relied heavily on painkillers to push through, but even then, the pain often overwhelms him, cutting sets short.
"It pains me to watch fans calling for more when my body feels weak and cannot deliver. Sometimes I break down in secret backstage; the world does not understand what I am going through," he said.
"Some promoters and fans think I've become big-headed, yet what I'm going through is beyond that. In some instances, when they change my performing time, I am forced to take more medication."
Personal and Professional Setbacks
Last year, Chief Hwenje received a luxury car and a promise of US$50,000 from businessman Wicknell Chivayo to assist in purchasing a house. However, the funds are yet to be delivered, adding financial stress to his already difficult situation.
The singer's health has also stalled his musical projects. His highly anticipated eight-track album, Chiedza chaSamere, initially set for release in December, has been postponed until next year due to his inability to work in the studio.
A Plea for Understanding and Support
Chief Hwenje's health battle has highlighted the challenges faced by public figures dealing with private struggles. As he prepares for surgery and treatment, he seeks solace in the tranquil environment of his rural home, hoping to rebuild his strength and return to the stage.
For his fans and supporters, Chief Hwenje remains a beacon of resilience, with many rooting for his recovery and eagerly anticipating his return to music.
Source - online
