Johnson Progress

Renowned Sungura musician Alick Macheso has expressed deep worry over the health issues affecting several members of his Orchestra Mberikwazvo band.

During a recent show in Harare, Macheso addressed the crowd about dancer Selemani “Majuicy” Mpochi’s health struggles.

“Majuicy is here, but he’s not performing tonight because he’s still unwell. His legs are giving him trouble, and the doctor advised him to rest,” Macheso told the audience, visibly concerned.

Mpochi had been absent from the stage for weeks due to his illness.

He added on saying that Guitarist Tafi Nyamunda has lost his eyesight and now relies on others for daily assistance.

Despite his condition, Nyamunda continues to perform with the band, receiving support from fellow musicians.

“I’m really worried. It’s not just Majuicy; we also have Tafi, who needs assistance now,” Macheso said in an interview.

Nyamunda’s situation is particularly dire, having recently revealed he had considered suicide after losing his sight.

Other band members facing health challenges include vocalist Elton Muropa, who has been ill for months, and Lucky Mumiriki, who suffered a stroke in 2011 and hasn’t performed in over a decade.

“There’s also Elton, who has been unwell for a while. We hope he gets better and can join us again. We thought Lucky was recovering, but the stroke has affected him again. It’s always on my mind,” Macheso expressed.

Taurai Miti, known as Ponda Ponda, another band member, relies on a wheelchair following a traffic accident in 2020.

Despite these setbacks, Macheso remains committed to supporting his bandmates, providing both financial assistance and emotional support.

“We’re doing our best to support them. We want their families to be taken care of. We tried to help Tafi regain his sight, but it didn’t work out. That’s God’s will,” Macheso explained.

Ponda Ponda thanked Macheso for his kindness, saying, “Since my accident during Covid-19, Macheso has taken care of me, providing for my rent, food, and other needs. He supports all the other guys who are unwell, and I appreciate his management for keeping us in mind.”