Veteran actor William Matenga, popularly known as Gweshegweshe, will be laid to rest at Warren Hills Cemetery in Harare on Wednesday following his conferment of Provincial Hero status.
The recognition, announced on Tuesday, settled a family disagreement over whether the celebrated entertainer should be buried at his rural home in Buhera or in Harare, with the decision paving the way for his burial in the capital.
Matenga, who died aged 65, was honoured for his contribution to national development, including his involvement in the liberation struggle and subsequent participation in political activities.
ZANU PF Harare provincial political commissar, Voyage Dambuza said Matenga had distinguished himself through his work in the entertainment industry and his commitment to the party.
“Gweshegweshe has been declared a provincial hero today, taking into account his contribution to the party and the development of the nation,” said Dambuza.
“He was not only an actor but was also actively involved in party and War Veterans Association activities.”
Dambuza described the late actor as a dedicated party member who served in various capacities, including as master of ceremonies at a recent War Veterans Association meeting in Epworth.
“Gweshegweshe was a dedicated cadre who served the party with distinction. He was also the master of ceremonies at the recent War Veterans Association meeting in Epworth. He was dedicated to his work and to serving the party,” he said.
Matenga rose to national prominence through the popular television series Gringo, which aired on ZTV and became known for its memorable characters and comic performances.
He featured alongside the late Lazarus “Gringo” Boora and Stembeni Makawa, popularly known as Mai Gweshegweshe.
His distinctive comic talent endeared him to audiences across generations, establishing him as one of Zimbabwe’s recognisable television personalities.
Gweshegweshe joins a number of entertainers who have received similar recognition, among them Simon “Chopper” Chimbetu, Soul Jah Love and Dickson Chingaira Makoni, popularly known as Cde Chinx.
