The Herald (Zimbabwe)

President meets Baba Manyeruke

. . . as he calls time on illustriou­s career

- Wallace Ruzvidzo Herald Reporter ◆ Full story on www.herald.co.zw

LEGENDARY gospel musician, Mechanic Manyeruke, affectiona­tely known as Baba Manyeruke, yesterday paid a courtesy call on President Mnangagwa at State House in Harare to inform him that he was retiring from the music industry.

In an interview after a closeddoor meeting with the President, the “Makorokoto” and “Madhimoni” hitmaker said he had decided to call time on his illustriou­s music career.

Henceforth, Baba Manyeruke said he would now focus on farming activities as he was still energetic.

The veteran gospel musician also revealed that he was born almost exactly a month before President

Mnangagwa was born.

“I was born on August 16, 1942, and he was born in September. I am the older one and our age difference is almost exactly a month.

“I had come to inform the President that I am retiring from music. I cannot keep on performing together with the younger and more energetic generation, but I will be coming to perform at national events and other auspicious occasions.

“As long as I am alive, I will be dedicating my time elsewhere. I still have the energy like that of a young boy so I will spend time tilling the land.

“He accepted my retirement, but he had reservatio­ns because he thought he was older than me,” said Baba Manyeruke.

While chroniclin­g the secret behind his long life and source of youthful energy, the 81-year-old said the Lord had sustained him, something the younger generation did not quite appreciate.

“What happens is that when we are thanking and praising the Lord for long life, people think that we are doing jokes.

 ?? ?? President Mnangagwa shares a lighter moment with veteran gospel musician Baba Mechanic Manyeruke at State House in Harare yesterday
President Mnangagwa shares a lighter moment with veteran gospel musician Baba Mechanic Manyeruke at State House in Harare yesterday
 ?? — Pictures: Believe Nyakudjara ?? The President receives a copy of Baba Manyeruke’s book titled “Kubva Muguruva” yesterday.
— Pictures: Believe Nyakudjara The President receives a copy of Baba Manyeruke’s book titled “Kubva Muguruva” yesterday.

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