STANLEY Cryton Patsika (27) is building a growing digital audience by turning the small indignities and ironies of Zimbabwean life into short, comic videos that spark as much conversation as laughter.
Known online as Musabhowe, Patsika now has about 70 000 followers across social media platforms with a mix of a weekly roundup show and a way of making sensitive issues approachable.
“I am a funny person, so it comes out naturally when I see somewhere I can use my voice and speak to people,” Patsika says.
His signature programme, Musabhowe Weekly Update, runs every Sunday and requires hours of preparation to gather trending stories of the week.
He records early: “The first thing in the morning I lift the camera,” he said adding that he had a relentless habit of note-taking, jotting ideas down even when he wakes from sleep.
Patsika’s work ranges from light-hearted takes on daily life to pointed social commentary.
One clip that drew attention tackled how some women normalise poor treatment with the phrase cherondakaroorwa.
“I was simply telling them that it’s their right to be treated nicely,” he explains.
Sensitive topics, he says, must be spoken about — “but I always find a funny way to deliver it so people won’t be offended too much but they will get the message,” he added.
Engagement is central to his approach.
Patsika responds to both praise and criticism in the comments, often recreating experiences with a comic twist.
He measures his success by views rather than likes — “I always check the number of people that view the video, not the likes” — and admits he rarely edits his clips.
“I write my script at any given time, even on my way to work.”
Like many creators balancing content and a day job, Patsika faces institutional pressure.
“The most difficult one is to get my bosses to understand that I have a second hustle,” he says.
“Some would intentionally put pressure on me so I can only focus on one thing, but this is Harare, you cannot survive on one income.”
Patsika’s growing profile has attracted commercial interest.
He has worked with brands including Nyaradzo, NashTV, Owen’s Beauty, Barcelos and Eatnlick, and is actively pitching for more partnerships.
Looking ahead, he hopes to open a physical shop where conversations about the day-to-day life of Zimbabweans can continue in person as well as online: “Musabhowe is open for business.”
Originally from Chikonohono in Chinhoyi, Patsika remains engaged with the realities of Zimbabwean daily life and keeps active across all social media platforms to reflect it.
As he scales his operation and seeks more brand work, his blend of comedy and commentary aims to keep viewers laughing while nudging attitudes and norms in subtle ways.
