Raila mourns death of Oliver Mtukudzi

NASA leader Raila Odinga on Wednesday evening joined the world in mourning the death of Zimbabwe’s Afro-Jazz legend Oliver Mtukudzi.

In his tribute, Odinga noted that it was difficult to accept his demise adding that he will miss the powerful performances of the Todii singer.

“Your question rendered in lyrics, What Shall We Do? May still have no answer. But be assured Africa and the world are struggling with it even as we accept the finality of your death.

“We will miss your enthralling performances and salute you. Rest in peace Oliver Mtukudzi,” wrote the former Prime Minister.

Mtukudzi died on January 23, aged 66 and will be fondly remembered for his captivating music that often highlighted problems facing many African countries such as HIV/AIDS, poverty and poor leadership.

In his four-decade career, the deceased released 67 albums and won fans all over the world due to his powerful music which often had a message that resonated with everyone.

Arguably, Todii was one of his best ever songs and it examined the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa.

Singing in both Shona and English, Mtukudzi described how the epidemic has devastated the social fabric of kinship relations and urges audiences to formulate a collective response.

In 2001, his song Wasakara (You are too old) was banned as it was believed to be pointing an accusing finger at former Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe who was ousted in 2017.

His last album Hanya’ga (Concern) was filled with emotion and was a cry for help due to the direction his home country was taking.

Tuku urged Zimbabweans to unite and salvage their country.

May his soul rest in peace.