Mai Rwizi estate wrangle turns nasty

The family of the late actress, preacher, and philanthropist Susan "Mai Rwizi" Chenjerai is embroiled in a bitter estate dispute, with relatives reportedly clashing over the ownership of her home in Beatrice Cottages, Mbare.

The wrangle surfaced shortly after Mai Rwizi's passing on July 6 last year following a short illness. Tensions have escalated over claims by Howard Kamuchira, the son of her late husband Lovemore Mubape's sister, who has sought to take control of the property. Kamuchira, who was raised by Mai Rwizi after losing his mother, has reportedly applied for the eviction of Lydia, Mai Rwizi's disabled daughter, along with two grandchildren living in the house.

Mai Rwizi's daughter Daisy Chenjerai described the situation as heartbreaking. "It is sad that all the efforts my mother contributed to developing this home with our stepfather will not count, as someone wants to grab it for his benefit," Daisy said, adding that Kamuchira even tried to force the family out during her mother's funeral wake.

The dispute is complicated by the fact that the property title deeds are in Mubape's name, limiting Mai Rwizi's family's legal claim. Daisy highlighted the injustice of the situation, noting that the family had invested significantly in refurbishing the home over the years.

Kamuchira acknowledged awareness of the dispute but declined to provide detailed comments, saying he had supporting documents for the eviction and was currently unavailable for a face-to-face interview.

Lydia, Mai Rwizi's disabled daughter, expressed concern that Kamuchira would use every possible legal avenue to claim the property, emphasizing that he was not a direct child of Mubape. "He has been submitting court applications for our eviction since he was appointed the executor of the estate. In most cases, we were not served with any papers and were shocked to learn from the Messenger of Court that we were supposed to move out," she said.

Mai Rwizi, who was accorded a State-assisted funeral by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, was celebrated for her contributions to entertainment and the church. Her funeral saw tributes from prominent figures, including Zanu-PF Central Committee member Webster Shamu, who urged the family to maintain unity and avoid estate conflicts.

A pioneer of Zimbabwean theatre and music, Mai Rwizi began her acting career in 1951 with the Bantu group, later joining the Marandellas Bush Babies and collaborating with renowned artists such as Oliver "Tuku" Mtukudzi and Zex Manatsa. She transitioned into Christian ministry in 1984, dedicating her life to counseling, marriage guidance, and charitable works.

With her legacy under threat from family disputes, the Chenjerai family is now seeking legal guidance to protect Mai Rwizi's estate and ensure that her contributions and property are preserved.