Fundraising drive seeks US$7k to rebuild Thomas Mapfumo’s home razed by fire
A fundraising campaign has been launched to help rebuild exiled Zimbabwean music legend Thomas Mapfumo’s Domboshava home which was ravaged by a fire on September 23, 2024.
A target of US$7,000 should be reached to cover construction costs.
The initiative, led by Nehanda Radio’s Managing Editor Lance Guma and Friends of Mapfumo, aims to support the music legend’s contributions to Zimbabwean culture and his fearless advocacy for the people.
Mapfumo plans to convert the rebuilt home into an arts centre, with details to be announced soon.
The GoFundMe link can be accessed on https://gofund.me/6e050789
Mapfumo, a vocal critic of the Zimbabwean government, suspects Zanu-PF thugs were behind the arson attack. The 79-year-old musician, who has lived in exile in the United States for over 20 years, expressed skepticism about the official narrative of a veld fire causing the blaze.
“It’s not possible for that house to have caught fire in the manner it did,” Mapfumo told Nehanda Radio.
“This is someone who went and torched the house and then set the grass in the surrounding area to create a diversion.”
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many viewing it as a targeted attack on Mapfumo’s legacy and freedom of expression.
Mapfumo, known for his Chimurenga music, has dedicated 63 years to composing and performing, using his platform to speak out against social injustice.
Donations to support the rebuilding efforts will be handed over to Mapfumo and his family, who will oversee the reconstruction process.
The money will cover IBR Sheets, Ridges, SAFE top screws, Timber, Wire Nails, Asbestos Fascia Boards, Clout Nails, Transport and Logistics, and Labour.
“Along with other friends of Thomas Mapfumo, with his permission and that of his family, we have come together and decided to rally around this national treasure and give back for all his contributions to our country over the years,” Guma said.
“Not only has he dedicated 63 years of his life to composing and performing Chimurenga music but he has fearlessly stood behind the people of Zimbabwe through thick and thin.
“Builders in Zimbabwe who have looked at the cost of rebuilding his home have given us a quotation of USD$6178 to complete the work.”
