Memorial Details Announced for Veteran Artiste Ishmael “Litshe” Muvingi

By Kudakwashe Takundwa

Details for the memorial and funeral service of veteran artist Ishmael “Litshe” Muvingi have been revealed following his passing on September 22.

The organizing committee announced the route for the farewell roadshow, scheduled for Friday, September 27, in Bulawayo. The procession will start at Kingdom Blue in Kelvin at 2 PM and make its way through the City Centre, with a notable stop at Rock Up Studios (Fort Street and 13th Avenue), where Muvingi recorded much of his music.

The hearse will then proceed to Basch Street and Makokoba, making a brief stop at Stanley Square, a space where he worked closely with Siyaya Arts. A short prayer will follow at the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (Makokoba).

As a dedicated Highlanders Football Club supporter, his next stop will be Barbourfields Stadium at the the Soweto End near the Swimming Pool. The motorcade will then pass head to Emakhadeni and briefly stop at the Entumbane Complex bus stop, near his workspace at Isalukazi Youth Centre, where he worked with Umkhathi Theatre Works.

The route will also include stops at Woza Woza and Maunga shops in Emakhandeni before heading to his home for the evening service, where his body will lay in state.

Muvingi began his artistic journey in 1994 and was a key figure in organizations like Sadalala Majekete, Siyaya Arts, and Umkhathi Theatre Works.

In 2016, he formed a musical group called “Band with No Name” and enjoyed a solo music career, releasing his final album, Mix Masala, in 2022.

He was also renowned for his portrayal of King Lobengula in the play Ihloka with Umkhathi Theatre.

In addition to his musical and theatrical achievements, Muvingi appeared in several films, including Amacala, Mlamu Wami, and Usendo.

The multi-talented performer who excelled as singer, dancer and actor will be laid to rest on Saturday, September 28, at Luveve Cemetery.