THE late Insimbi Zezhwane singers Elvis MaEl Nyathi and Thembinkosi Maviri Mpofu have received a well-befitting memorial service held at Bulawayo Amphitheatre.
Mpofu and Nyathi lost their lives in a fatal accident along the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road early this week.
They were en-route to Binga, Matabeleland for a Zanu PF gala.
Addressing mourners, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs minister, Judith Ncube, said there was a communication breakdown as there was no gala in Binga.
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“Their presence reached far beyond the entertainment industry, touching the lives of millions of people around the world,” Ncube said.
“The President of the Second Republic Emmerson Mnangagwa and the Ministry of Arts sends their deepest condolences to the families, fans and friends.
"They were not only an accomplished band but they touched so many lives. Their efforts and charitable contributions to the nation have left a truly indelible mark behind.”
Singer Ndux Malaba junior said their deaths are a great loss to the rumba genre.
Comedian and Singer Madlela Skhobokhobo said: “When I think of the music produced by Ma Eli, the lyrics he wrote I get chills.
“How did someone so young develop the ability to write such powerful music? That’s when you see that it wasn’t his own doing but God. “
Insimbi ZeZhwane created their unique Rhumba sound and gained recognition across Matabeleland and beyond the country’s borders.
Ma Eli will be buried at his rural home in Tsholotsho while Maviri will be laid to rest at Luveve cemetery in Bulawayo.
