By Staff Reporter
Veteran actor William “Gweshegweshe” Matenga will be laid to rest today at Warren Hills Cemetery in Harare after being honored with provincial hero status, ending family debates about his final resting place.
Matenga, aged 65, died over the weekend after suffering from hypertension. His contributions to Zimbabwe’s ruling party and creative arts industry led to official recognition by the State, confirming his burial in Harare.
His burial initially caused division among relatives regarding the right location. However, ZANU PF Harare Provincial Political Commissar, Cde Voyage Dambuza, confirmed Matenga’s provincial hero status, highlighting both his artistic achievements and his active participation in party and War Veterans Association activities. Dambuza described him as a dedicated cadre who served with honor and recently played a major role at a War Veterans Association event in Epworth.
Matenga gained national fame through the Gringo TV series on ZTV, appearing alongside notable cast members such as the late Lazarus “Gringo” Boora, Fanuel “Firimoni” Tonganayi, and Stembeni Makawa (Mai Gweshegweshe).
Family spokesperson Tarisai Nyikayaramba expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying it fulfilled Matenga’s wish to be buried among fellow comrades. Nyikayaramba remembered Gweshegweshe’s unique ability to touch millions with his talent and humor, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten.
Matenga becomes part of a distinguished group of Zimbabwean artists honored as provincial heroes, including musicians Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, Soul Jah Love, and Dickson Chingaira Makoni (Cde Chinx). The late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi remains the only creative to receive national hero status.
Yesterday, Matenga’s body lay in state at his Zengeza 5 home in Chitungwiza, where neighbors, fellow actors, and a large crowd gathered to pay tribute. He is survived by seven children.
