Veteran Gringo actor Gweshegweshe burial likely to be delayed

The burial of veteran actor William “Gweshegweshe” Matenga could be delayed as the Harare Provincial War Veterans Association pushes for him to be accorded provincial hero status in recognition of his contribution to the liberation struggle and service to the country.

Matenga succumbed to hypertension and died on Saturday at the age of 65.

He was a celebrated actor, a former soldier, and an ex-combatant who served his country.

Beyond his military credentials and acting career, he was actively involved in community development initiatives and was regarded by those close to him as a unifying figure who championed peace and harmony.

Family spokesperson and brother-in-law, Mr Peter Chafewa, told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that several administrative processes were still outstanding, affecting the burial arrangements.

“The burial of Gweshegweshe is likely to be postponed since the War Veterans Association for Harare Province, where he was also one of the leaders, wants clarity on his status,” Mr Chafewa said.

“There is a team which left this morning to process his papers in town, but they are yet to give us feedback. This team is made up of his son Kudakwashe, who is studying IT at the University of Zimbabwe, his former wife and a few relatives. It is my hope that the paperwork will be processed in time so that we give him a decent burial befitting his status.” Mr Chafewa also revealed that the family was waiting for the arrival of Matenga’s children who are based abroad.

“Another issue which is pending is that the family is waiting for the arrival of his son Lawrence, who works in Australia, and his South Africa-based son, Lloyd Matenga, who is an advocate,” he said, adding that his other son, Kudakwashe, was helping to process the paperwork.

Mr Chafewa said the veteran actor’s health challenges began last year, though the condition was initially managed.

“Sometime last year or so, he was diagnosed with prostate gland enlargement, which was then compounded by hypertension. The first health scare was addressed, but it kept on recurring,” he said. “The last time I spoke to him was last Friday when we were talking about something to do with fixing electricity, since I am an electrical engineer myself. He was in a jovial mood that Friday and had played snooker at Limbani Shops in Zengeza 5, which was his favourite spot. I was shocked to hear that he was unwell around 9pm. He was pronounced dead upon admission.”

Mr Chafewa added that Matenga had retired as a soldier three years ago and had focused his time on community development issues. He also revealed that Matenga had expressed a wish to be buried at Warren Hills Cemetery alongside other comrades who had been accorded provincial hero status.

Meanwhile, a steady stream of mourners continued to arrive at his residence. Congregants from St Agnes Roman Catholic Church were playing a leading role in coordinating the burial arrangements.

Fellow comrades, neighbours, and fans described Matenga as a man of peace who was deeply committed to his community. By late yesterday afternoon, none of his fellow actors had arrived at the residence, though they were expected later in the evening or at the burial ceremony.

Matenga is survived by seven children. Mourners are gathered at No. 12 Mupangara, Zengeza 5, Chitungwiza. *_-Herald_*