Minister Shamu takes over Tongai's band

MEDIA, Information and Publicity Minister Webster Shamu has moved in to ease the responsibilities of ailing Tongai "Dhewa" Moyo by taking over the running of Utakataka Express. Minister Shamu, who is also the patron of Zimbabwe Union of Musicians said the idea behind the move was to allow the musician to recuperate without thinking about his band crumbling.

"As we said last time we are going to look for money from well-wishers that will be used for the day-to-day running of not only the band but the family as well," said Minister Shamu. Meanwhile, Tongai Moyo was said to be under observation by doctors after Rituxmab was administered to him over the weekend. The musician is expected to take a long rest.The minister has said that in showbiz, musicians were unable to take leave as they always have to be on stage to make money. According to Minister Shamu, if the leader is not feeling well, then the band cannot attract meaningful contracts and may lead to the band disintegrating. He said, "We will try our best to make sure that the 18-member band survives this storm. It will give Tongai a better chance of recuperating considering the fact that he will not have to worry about the responsibilities of the band."

Dhewa, who will be off stage for the next three weeks was upbeat and said Minister Shamu was God-sent.

"At least for once I can afford my body a rest considering the amount of help I am getting from the minister. I don't know how to thank him." A fortnight ago Minister Shamu organised funds to buy Dhewa Rituxmab, the drug that his doctor had advised would improve his situation.

His promoter Joseph Munyebvu of Joe Promotions, whom he has a one-year understanding with has said he has not lost faith in the star musician and will wait on him to recuperate. "There is not much we can do in this instance and we hope he will recover soon and we can go back to doing what he loves most."

Another promoter who has worked with Dhewa this year, Zacharia Five better known as Changamire, has also said he is pinning his hopes on Dhewa's recovery to opening his new outlet with a bang. "I am hoping in three weeks time he will be well so that he plays at the opening of my new outlet in Centenary," he said.

Other promoters like Partson Chimboza and Josh Hozheri have also said that they will be helping out. Herald