Bulawayo residents are mourning the loss of Pathisa Nyathi, a beloved historian and cultural icon, who will be laid to rest tomorrow at Lady Stanley Cemetery.
Nyathi, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 73, is remembered for his dedication to preserving Zimbabwean history and the rich cultural heritage of the Ndebele people.
In recognition of Nyathi’s influential work, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has accorded him a State-assisted funeral.
The funeral service will be held at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre, drawing mourners from across the city and beyond who wish to pay their respects to a man many describe as a “well of cultural knowledge.”
“He was committed to preserving the Ndebele culture, ‘Amafa ethu,’” shared one local resident. Another resident added, “Rest in peace, dear Mdluli. We will always remember your good works.”
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart also paid tribute to Nyathi, celebrating his contributions to the city’s heritage and his extensive research.
“He will be remembered for his research on Bulawayo’s history and his unwavering commitment to the development of the city, Matabeleland, and the nation as a whole,” Coltart said.
Nyathi’s legacy includes the Amagugu Heritage Centre and the “My Beautiful Home” project, both of which championed the preservation of culture, arts, and indigenous food systems.
Coltart noted that Nyathi had served as Bulawayo’s Public Relations Officer from 2005 to 2008, where he played a key role in fostering transparency between the city and its residents.
“His passing is a great loss for our city and country,” Coltart expressed on behalf of Bulawayo’s council and residents. “Our deepest sympathies go to the Nyathi family, his children, grandchildren, and the nation at large.”
Nyathi’s legacy will endure as a testament to his life’s work, forever etched in Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape.
