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Chief Mandela, flanked by his wife Nkosikazi Mbalenhle Makathini and businessman Shingi Mutasa, officially opens GotchaNyama Restaurant in Harare last Friday

Brenda Phiri Entertainment Reporter
Some of the who’s who of Harare and the Southern Africa region graced the official opening of GotchaNyama Restaurant, a traditional African eatery nestled in the upmarket Joina City in the Harare CBD.
Chief Zwelivelile Mandlesizwe Dalibhunga Mandela, accompanied by his wife Nkosikazi Mbalenhle Makathini from South Africa, officially opened the eatery at an event also graced by senior councillor Royal House of Mandela and Mvezo Traditional Council, Mapilisi Mandela, businessman Shingi Mutasa, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Walter Mzembi, his wife Barbara as well as Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba and her husband.

Chief Mandela described his presence as an honour and privilege.
“Being here today in this heartbeat of Harare for us is a memorable moment. We are witnessing the fundamental reason why my grandfather strived to ensure that he liberated not only his country, but disadvantage communities throughout the globe starting with Africans,” he said.

He said he was happy to be part of the restaurant’s story as it was a union of Africa. He said this in reference to the restaurant’s owners.
Josie Mahachi is a Zimbabwean married to a Nigerian Jide Agbeneyi.

“Today we celebrate a union of Africa in this beautiful couple, my friends being Zimbabwean and Nigerian. We are here to bring together Africans from all walks of life,” he said.

Chief Mandela said GotchaNyama represented more than just a place of sharing dishes but people’s experiences and challenges.
He spoke highly of his late iconic grandfather’s dreams and sacrifices for humanity.

He said Zimbabwe’s ties with South Africa was strengthened by the two countries’ fight against apartheid.
“Zimbabwe has always been our home. At our darkest hour during the oppressive apartheid, we sought shelter in this very country.”

These guests got to taste some of the restaurant’s traditional dishes including rice in peanut butter, roasted goat meat and chicken more commonly known as “road runner”. While they currently serve mostly Zimbabwean and Nigerian dishes, they said South African dishes would be added soon.