By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, 20 March 2026 – Popular Zimbabwean musician Fadza Chikukwa Saungweme, widely known as Mabamura and famed for his hit song “Stumbo,” has died following a mining accident in Penhalonga gold fields on Thursday.
Saungweme, 46, reportedly fell into a 30-metre-deep gold pit and sustained fatal head injuries. Sources said the incident occurred at a mining site, although full details are yet to be confirmed.
Mabamura rose to national prominence through his collaboration with Baba Harare on “Stumbo,” a song that received extensive airplay on both radio and television and became a household hit across Zimbabwe.
The track gained widespread popularity at social gatherings, firmly establishing him as a recognizable figure in the country’s music scene.
Reacting to the news about 16 hours ago, Baba Harare shared the following message on his Facebook account:
“Jiti family ndanzwa nerunyerekupe kuti mumwe wangu wandakashandidzana naye pachimbo chiya chinonzi Stumbo akashayika zuro. Ndichirikuda kunyatsonzwisisa asi vepedyo nemukuru Mabamura varikuti ashayika. Semhuri yejiti tarasikirwa zvikurusa. Kumhuri yasara ndaikumbirawo kuti ane nyaya izere andibatewo kuseri. Parizvino ndinongoti kumhuri nematambudziko”
Known for his energetic performances and freestyle approach, Mabamura built a strong following, particularly in Manicaland.
His music catalogue included songs such as “Yakapenga Dear,” “Ndakanhongwa Ndafa,” and “Masoja EkwaChiyadzwa,” which were frequently played at weddings and community celebrations.
He was also respected for his drumming talent and his ability to create music that reflected everyday experiences.
He is expected to be buried tomorrow in Bocha, Marange, at Chinowaita Village.
Prior to his death, Saungweme had indicated plans to release a new album and had shared these ambitions in a recent interview with The Wasu Post
His death has sent shockwaves across the arts community, with many describing him as a gifted and versatile performer whose music resonated nationwide.