The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has resolved to name a city street after Pathisa Nyathi, honouring his profound contributions to preserving Zimbabwean culture and national heritage.
This announcement was made during Nyathi’s funeral service at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre on Wednesday before he was laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery.
Nyathi, born on July 10, 1951, passed away on November 2, 2024, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by dignitaries, family, friends, and admirers.
At the service, speakers reflected on his role in documenting Zimbabwean culture, with some describing him as a “living library of culture.”
Speaking at the funeral, Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart described Nyathi as an exceptional individual dedicated to cultural preservation.
“I’ve been sitting here this morning, listening to so many people speak about different facets of his life—his dedication to family, the intelligence of his grandchildren continuing his legacy, and his immense contributions on both national and professional fronts. We celebrate that today, and it lifts our spirits,” Coltart said.
“I’ve heard many say his loss is like a library burning down. Fortunately, his legacy lives on. He wisely used his time to leave us a rich heritage through the Amagugu Heritage Centre,” Coltart added.
Coltart praised Nyathi’s legacy, stating that his 60-plus books and numerous newspaper columns created a foundation for future generations to learn about Zimbabwe’s rich history, particularly Ndebele culture.
“In a small way, the city wants to honour his contribution. Yesterday, with my councillors, we resolved to name a significant street after him,” Coltart announced. He also pledged to establish a “Nyathi Corner” in every council library to keep his works accessible for future generations.
The Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Foundation presented a portrait to Nyathi’s family in recognition of his role within the Foundation. A local artist, Leeroy “Sphinx Bow” Brittain also gifted a portrait drawn during the funeral service.
Nicholas Moyo, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, expressed personal gratitude, noting Nyathi’s influence in shaping his career.
“I worked with him for 41 years, since the mid-80s, when we were learning scriptwriting with figures like Sigogo. His impact on my life and career in arts and culture is immense. I salute him as a cultural hero of Zimbabwe,” Moyo said.
Moyo urged the audience to view Nyathi as a national figure, beyond his contributions to the Ndebele culture. “Let’s not reduce him. Yes, he strengthened the Ndebele language, but he did a lot for Zimbabwe as a whole.”
Moyo also revealed that, six months prior, Nyathi challenged him to revive Old Bulawayo. Following their discussion, the Ministry of Home Affairs set aside funds to restore the historic site.
Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs, Judith Ncube, highlighted the importance of documenting artists’ work, particularly given recent losses. “The devil is harassing our artists. Many are leaving with their skills unshared. Let’s document their works so future generations will know them,” she said.
Minister Ncube described Nyathi as a “living library” and an archive of Zimbabwean history. “Nyathi’s work in preserving our customs and traditions has left an indelible mark on Zimbabwean culture. His passing leaves a significant void in the country’s cultural and intellectual landscape,” she remarked.
