By a Correspondent
Veteran Chimurenga music legend Thomas Tafirenyika Mapfumo has accepted businessman Wicknell Chivhayo’s record-breaking US$1 million offer to perform at two shows in Zimbabwe, bringing days of speculation and public debate to an end.
Chivhayo confirmed the agreement on social media, saying Mapfumo had accepted the deal despite criticism and scepticism surrounding the offer.
The businessman said he would honour his pledge by paying US$500,000 for each performance, making Mapfumo the highest-paid musician in Zimbabwe’s history.
“I am pleased to announce that I will wholeheartedly honour my commitment by paying a record-breaking US$1 million for these two shows at US$500,000 per show. This will make the legendary Thomas Tafirenyika Mapfumo the highest-paid singer ever in the history of our beloved country,” Chivhayo said.
The agreement represents one of the richest entertainment deals ever announced in Zimbabwe and is expected to see the veteran musician earn a seven-figure payout for the performances.
Chivhayo congratulated Mapfumo, popularly known as Mukanya, for accepting the offer and dismissed critics who had questioned the arrangement.
“I say a big congratulations to you, Mukanya, my best singer of all time, for making this decision consciously and independently, without any influence from the naysayers who have never contributed anything meaningful to your welfare or to your extraordinary legacy,” he said.
He said the payment was intended to recognise Mapfumo’s immense contribution to Zimbabwean music and the role his songs played during the country’s liberation struggle.
“This is my small way of thanking you for your immense contribution to Zimbabwe’s music and arts industry over the years and, more importantly, for the inspiration your music provided during the liberation struggle that brought about our historic and precious independence,” Chivhayo said.
He added that Mapfumo’s music had “educated, inspired, united and comforted generations of Zimbabweans” and said his legacy would continue to shape the country’s cultural identity for years to come.
Beyond the performances, Chivhayo also invited the Chimurenga icon to attend a future housewarming ceremony at his planned Kugara Huda Estate in Gandami, Wiltshire, once construction is completed later this year.
The agreement marks a significant moment in Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry, with Mapfumo set to return home for what are expected to be two of the most lucrative performances ever staged by a local artist.
