Affectionately known as “Tuku”, his name is trending on Twitter as people pay tribute to him.
But as Zimbabweans come together to mourn the musician, correspondents say there are fears the government will use his death to divert attention from the brutal crackdown on protesters and the country’s economic woes.
Zimbabwe’s ‘cry for help’ – By Stanley Kwenda, BBC Africa
Oliver Mtukudzi’s last album was filled with emotion. Called Hanya’Ga, which translates as “Concern” in the Shona language, it came out last February – three months after Mr Mugabe, who had ruled Zimbabwe for 37 years, was ousted.
It felt like he had taken his gloves off and was able to express his real concerns about the country’s future. From child marriage to the economic meltdown and worries about a lack of concern for human life – he tackled it all.
It was a rallying call for unity among Zimbabweans – a wake-up call to do something to stop the rot that had characterised the country for many years. It was also a letter to the government – a cry for help.
He also collaborated with Stewart Sukuma and created and recorded “Guardians of the Light” to raise awareness for child rights. Stewart and Oliver were both social activists and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors. This video was shot during the actual creation and recording of the song.
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