By Sports Writer
A heroes send off marked the departure of decorated Karateka, Sensei Mugove Muhambi on his way to Zinyengerere Cemetery in Epworth.
Karatekas, musicians, top government officials and sportsman were among the crowds which gave the late sensei a special send off.
Sensei Mugo was laid to rest at Zinyengerere Cemetery in Epworth.
He died in a road traffic accident on Saturday morning and he was celebrated as a decorated sports personality and a unifier.
Thousands paid their respects with a street procession bringing traffic to a standstill from his St Martins home to his final resting place.
Karatekas, boxers, musicians and sports personalities joined the procession.
Sensei Mugo was 49, and left behind his wife and two children.
Addressing mourners at the burial site, Sports Minister Anselem Sanyatwe said:
“We have lost a great sportsman who flew the Zimbabwean flag high since the year 2000, he represented our country well and executed his duties well.
“He went to Russia, Hungary, Asia and the Far East and brought all kinds of medals back home. He made us proud and, on behalf of the Sports Ministry, we have lost a national asset.
“What’s left for us is to emulate what he did and the greatest gift is to love one another as he was a man of the people who accommodated everyone.
“He was able to plant the seed of the nation, which is the unity of purpose.”
Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe (second from right) and several Government officials at Sensei Mugo’s funeral.
Min Sanyatwe also took the platform to urge youths to stay away from drugs.
“To our young people, stay away from drugs for they do not go hand-in-hand with athleticism. We need you to prosper, siyanai netumbwa, nekuti hazviti yamure semhuri yeZimbabwe, siyai zvinodhakwa,” he said.
Nutty O, who was a close friend of the late Sensei Mugo, said he has lost a pillar of strength.“I have learnt a lot from Sensei Mugo, he taught me to spread love to others, to be patient with others.
“It’s a special thing that I paid my last respects because he would have done the same to me.
“He was my big brother, teacher and big fan and we would talk almost every night. I will always honour him because he was important to me,” said Nutty O.
Deputy Sports Minister Emily Jesaya and Finance and Economic Development Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga also paid their last respects by joining mourners at Zinyengerere Cemetery.Members of the Sports and Recreation Commission, the Boxing Federation and members of Kyokushin Karate also attended the burial.
But who was Sensei Muhambi?
Sensei Mugove was more than just a trainer—he was a mentor, motivator, and community pillar. His passion for physical fitness and mental discipline touched countless lives. Whether leading a weekend boot camp or instructing a class of young martial artists, he brought energy, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his work.
Across Zimbabwe, people from all walks of life have taken to social media to share their grief and pay tribute.
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Urban grooves artist Trevor Dongo also expressed his devastation, writing that he was “shattered” and “at a loss for words.” His post reflected the pain felt by many who had been inspired by Sensei Mugove’s positivity and determination.
A Life of Purpose and Passion
Sensei Mugove was a regular fixture at fitness events in Harare and beyond, where he inspired hundreds with his infectious enthusiasm and powerful discipline. He built a strong following both online and in person, encouraging Zimbabweans to embrace healthier lifestyles—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
His death leaves a profound void in the fitness and martial arts community, where he was regarded not only for his skill and expertise but also for his kindness and generosity.
