As “Operation Save Dhewa” continues, it seems there is a large segment of the showbiz industry that has not come out openly to contribute towards the welfare of Tongai Moyo.
These are the people who have worked with him over the years, building his career and at the same time making money out of him. Now that the man who fattened their pockets is in dire need of everyone’s support financially, what have they done to help the sungura icon?
Some are promoters who have worked with Dhewa since the inception of his career.
Although Dhewa is getting continued support from other stakeholders, the contributions are not enough to meet his day-to-day needs. The contributions are only a drop in the ocean, hence this plea for assistance.
Almost nothing has been said or heard about promoters offering their hand to help Dhewa fight his cancer. Or is it they chose to be silent about it?
Dhewa has worked with almost every known promoter in the country and these include the owners of the Megga 1 and 2 joints, Ben Mukandi, Josh Hozheri, Partson “Chipaz” Chimboza, Barbara Chikosi (affectionately known as Mama Red Rose), Chris “Ghetto Fabulous” Musabayana, Taurayi “Bucho” Mudzwiti and prominent Manicaland-based transporter Esau Mupfumi, Mai Jojo, Nancy Manyaya of Presdom Promotions, among others. The ever-flamboyant Mupfumi was not reachable for comment but he has since made a contribution of US$2 000 towards the buying of the cancer drug, Rituxmab, which is said to be
the solution in improving Dhewa’s condition.
Mama Red Rose indicated that there has not been a proper plan that has been set aside by promoters on how best they can help save Dhewa.
“We have not sat down yet as promoters to map the best way on how we can help Dhewa in his ordeal. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing in place,” she said.
Some of the promoters are keen on helping Utakataka Express carry on with life,whilst the band leader recovers. Chimboza has taken it upon himself to hold shows to cater for the welfare of the 18-member outfit and help them carry on with life.
“We have come to an agreement with Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah and Sulu Chimbetu to hold shows and raise funds to sustain the band and Dhewa has given us the go-ahead. We are going to hold these shows as soon as possible and whatever the amount we are going to realise, we will channel it towards the welfare of the band members,” he said.
Chimbodza added that he came about this idea after realising that there is a part of Dhewa that makes him complete as the nation has come to know him, the band members, which were not being catered for since Dhewa is getting some financial help from a lot of well-wishers.
Hozheri says he is looking into the future as he is helping in the grooming of 22-year-old Peter, who is taking over his father’s band.
“I have decided to offer my advice in the grooming of Peter and giving him shows so that he familiarises with his father’s fans and in the process building his own fan base.
“I can foresee a brighter future for Utakataka Express with Peter leading the band because as it stands he is the only substantive successor to his father,” he said.
Hozheri also added that he contributed towards the buying of the latest cancer drug Rituxmab, but was not at liberty to disclose the amount.
When contacted for comment, Mukandi, who is currently in South Africa on business, said that although he has not done anything yet to help Dhewa, he is ready to do so anytime.
“I have been away for too long and haven’t been in touch with the latest developments back home. Besides I haven’t received any specific requests from his manager, but I am ready to assist Dhewa at any point in time as much as I can,” he said.
Musabayana and Mudzwiti could not be reached for comment by the time of going to print. Despite all these developments and efforts, the operation to save Dhewa continues and gives hope to all cancer patients. - The Sunday Mail
