“I Wish to Be Buried in Zimbabwe”: Mapfumo Reflects on Legacy and Hope for Homecoming
Chimurenga legend Thomas Mapfumo has declared his wish to be buried in Zimbabwe, saying his roots remain unshaken despite living in the United States for more than two decades.
The 80-year-old made the heartfelt declaration following a farewell concert in Birmingham, United Kingdom, where over 3,000 fans gathered to bid him goodbye.
Known affectionately as Mukanya, Mapfumo emphasized that no foreign citizenship could erase his Zimbabwean identity.
“I may have American citizenship, but that does not change the fact that I am Zimbabwean
“If I die, I will be buried in Zimbabwe. I truly love my roots, and, as I mentioned earlier, we can never escape ourselves, even if we live abroad,” he said.
Mapfumo relocated to the United States around the year 2000, officially to expand his international reach.
However, many viewed the move as self-imposed exile, as he became increasingly vocal in his criticism of the Zimbabwean government while abroad.
In a recent interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, he spoke about the challenges of life in the diaspora.
“Life here can be hell on earth because you do not have close friends or people to support you when you are broke.
“It is survival of the fittest and one must be responsible, knowing you are not in your own country,” he explained.
The veteran musician acknowledged that many Zimbabweans abroad did not leave by choice.
He said several factors led them to settle overseas, and most dearly miss home.
“I also miss Zimbabwe—it will always be my home, even though the US became my second home due to circumstances beyond my control.”
As part of his retirement plans, Mapfumo confirmed a concert in South Africa and hinted at a possible final show in Zimbabwe.
“There are people planning something in Zimbabwe and I am just waiting to hear from them,” he remarked.
The Sunday Mail reported on Mapfumo’s farewell tour and his reflections on life abroad.
While he remained noncommittal about relocating permanently, he reiterated his wish to be laid to rest in his homeland.
“Just know that I truly remain a Zimbabwean and nothing takes away that fact. I will be buried there, and I just love my roots.”
Mapfumo also shared his views on the current state of Zimbabwean music, expressing concern over a lack of distinctive style among young artists.
He urged local musicians to emulate Nigerian artists like Burna Boy, who have achieved global success through authentic sounds.
Reflecting on his own journey, Mapfumo recalled how he transitioned from performing rock and roll covers to pioneering Chimurenga music.
He said he learned early on that international success would only come through originality and cultural authenticity.
“I am a perfect example of someone who realised that being a copycat leads to failure. Even now, I feel compelled to guide young artistes in the right direction,” he explained.
As the curtain gently falls on Mapfumo’s long career, his wish is clear: to be laid to rest in Zimbabwe. His message to Zimbabwe is simple—stay true, stay original, and never forget your roots.
