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Pretty Xaba

Entertainment Reporters
The television and film industry has been plunged into mourning following the death of star actress Pretty Xaba (49) over the weekend. Xaba, popularly known as “Mai Muwengwa” from the soap Studio 263 succumbed to cancer of the oesophagus in New Delhi, India, where she was being treated since October.

Taonga Mafundikwa, who spearheaded the “Let’s Help Pretty Xaba” campaign and a long time friend confirmed the news on social media.

“Final hug. Two months ago l said goodbye to my friend as she flew off to lndia for treatment. I did not know it was the last ever hug in our living years. Today the Most High decided to promote her to higher glory. RIP Pretty. Died in lndia, after a well fought battle with cancer. Will miss you pal,” he posted.

Mafundikwa said burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

“So far I am waiting to hear what the family are discussing but will let you know as soon as I have the information. I am saddened,” he said.

Xaba is survived by two kids Hope and Runyararo. She was a household name from radio to television and has touched many hearts and colleagues have joined in mourning.

Eve Mwatse

The former Small House Saga actress Eve Mwatse said was shocked to receive the news. Mwatse said Xaba was her make-up artist at the Small House Saga.

“I am deeply grieved to hear of aunt Pretty’s passing on after her long battle with cancer. I am honoured to have worked with her in several productions and having a good relationship off work. Will never forget what a great person and source of inspiration she was, the laughs, the advices the gossiping among other things. She will always be remembered,” she said.

Mwatse worked with Xaba in “Small House Saga”, “Playing Warriors”, “Something Nice from London” among others.

Wellington Kizito

Affectionately known as Dread Welly Wemaplan by his legion of fans, Kizito said Xaba was more than an actor to him.

“She was more than an actor as she could counsel us during hard times. To me she was my mother and I have learnt a lot through her. When I started acting she was already in the business and I could look up to her for some skills,” he said.

Anne Nhira

The former beauty queen who acted as Vimbai described Xaba as a legend.

“May her soul rest in eternal peace. I can’t believe this. She is our own legend in the film sector, a beautiful woman, a friend. We are gutted,” she posted on her Facebook page.

Denzel Burutsa

Burutsa who played the role of Jabu in the Studio 263 soap said it was a blessing to work with Xaba and will cherish the moments.

“She was a humble person and I never looked at her as a workmate but a sister. The one you can go to for advise. She was easy going and would fit in any social circle but most of all she was kind. I knew her situation and right now can feel the pain her family is going through. It is a sad moment to the family, arts sector and Zimbabwe at large,” he said.

Chipo “Eve” Bizure

Bizure who has won the hearts of many a woman from her role Eve in Studio 263 said she was hurt after hearing the sad news.

“I am deeply saddened. She was like an aunt to us as she always advised us to do good. I have learnt a lot and her roles will never be replaced,” she said.

Edmore Sandifolo

The Chinhoyi 7 actor said he had worked with Xaba in movies and theatre productions.

“It’s sad that good people are always taken from us. We have worked together in ‘Playing Warriors’ and ‘Lobola’. She was a nice person and talented actress,” he said.

Tendai Chakanyuka

Writing on her Facebook Wall, Radio personality and actress Tendai Chakanyuka, the Sweet Thang, expressed shock at Xaba’s death.

‘‘Now that I have got a grip, I am still numb with shock and shattered beyond words. Little did I know too this was the last goodbye. I was so hopeful and was looking forward to welcoming her back early next year…

‘‘Mwari vatonga havo. Ndiri kurwadziwa (It is God’s will but I am in pain). No more pain Pretty shamwari (my friend). You were a fighter but God wanted you in his garden too. Rest In Peace Mai Hope askana.’’