Legendary singer, guitarist, academic, former professional soccer player, professional FIFA trained soccer coach and cartoonist Bob Nyabinde was finally buried at Kwekwe Central cemetery on Tuesday 26 December 2023. Nyabinde died in Harare on 24 December from complications resulting from diabetes.
His prophetic song “Chabuda Hapana” meaning ‘toiling for nothing” or “much ado about nothing” perhaps gained new meaning befitting the hyper-inflationary atmosphere in which Zimbabwe found itself since early 2000s resulting in loss of savings, pensions and meaningful working conditions for many Zimbabweans. At the time of writing Nyabinde would not have foreseen the situation as it developed in his country.
The funeral itself comprised of music by different respected artists, speeches by family respected figures from the Arts sector and mixed feelings ranging from the acute sense of loss for family and reflections of his legendary sense of humor.
Nicholas Moyo, the new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Art & Culture, who served as National Arts Council Director, gave a touching, personal anecdote of his experience with Nyabinde.
He explained: “My wife was one of the greatest supporters of Nyabinde. One day Bob called me and said; ‘I heard my fan has a birthday and you are planning something.’ It was her 50th birthday. I explained that it was private and there was nothing planned.
“With 2 days to go he called me again and asked about the venue. I told him. He said if it’s a surprise I want to be a surprise entertainer and I will bring my PA system and everything I need. My wife actually cried when she saw Bob performing for her.”
“When you look at the 2 Nyabinde boys you will understand when a man loves his children. It was not just father and sons. He loved his boys and he passed his talent on to them. He even showed this love to others beyond his family.”
“Covid lockdowns were the hardest time. Bob’s health took a downward turn at that time. Many people with chronic illnesses had difficult times with it and are no longer with us.
“Through Doctor Chitepo’s leadership as permanent secretary we ran around. People were being screened and Albert would run around to get us clearance. The love he gave us is what we wanted to give back.”
“This man was a great fighter. As a ministry we come here to celebrate a legend. At midnight yesterday at his home it was a celebration. The atmosphere was one of a send-off and celebration.
“You understand now why he was a social commentator. Albert and Agga one thing your father wanted was government support. He always wanted to be on the Intwasa program even when he was not strong enough.”
“The boys also loved their father back. As Bob friend I saw it and I felt it. In smaller families you feel much closer to your dad. These 2 guys loved their father till the end. We have to acknowledge the daughters in law.”
“When Bob got sick the boys kept it among themselves. They didn’t want the media to know. They kept on hoping until it became impossible to keep the secret.”
Many have been nicknamed “The Headmaster” in Zimbabwe before for their exceptional abilities. But was an understatement in this case as Nyabinde was a real former school headmaster. He quit the Headmaster’s office to pursue his love for music.
He was also a carpenter and one of the country’s respected luthiers or guitar fixers. His lyrics were thought-provoking and certainly caught attention. His range of abilities included being a published newspaper cartoonist. He was a true multi-talent.
Jah Prayzah mourned the loss of Nyabinde on his Facebook page saying: “I…carry a heavy heart in mourning the loss of a true icon in our music industry, Bob Nyabinde. A father figure, mentor, and a dear friend.
“To those who did not know, Bob is also behind my signature Mbira-Guitar Shell design which has been instrumental in shaping my unique brand’s image and sound.”
“His passing is a monumental loss to our nation and the global music community. We remember him for the joy and inspiration he brought into our lives, and his legacy in music will continue to echo in our hearts.
‘To the Nyabinde family, please know that you are not alone in this sorrow; Bob’s spirit and legacy will forever be cherished.”
“Let us hold each other a little closer, remember those we have lost, and cherish the memories they have left us. Bob Nyabinde will always be remembered as a superstar, a mentor, and a cherished friend.”
Nyabinde reportedly suffered a stroke and other diabetic-related setbacks before Covid. Reports claim he lost some functions on his left-side limiting his ability to play guitar.
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