HWANGE’s arts community is mourning the death of celebrated Hwange-based artist Fanuel Achimwene Mwale, remembered as a versatile and gifted creative whose influence extended beyond the country’s borders.
Mwale passed away a week ago in Hwange following a short illness.
Hwange Central legislator Fortune Daniel Molokele described the late artist as a lifelong friend and a pillar of the local creative sector.
Molokele said he visited Mwale’s family in Makwika Village, Ward 15, to pass his condolences, and later paid his respects at the artist’s burial site at Makwika Cemetery.
“The late Mwale and I go back over 45 years. I actually grew up with him in the P Section area of No. 1 Colliery. I consider him my first best friend,” he said.
Molekele said they were classmates throughout their early education at St Ignatius Primary School, sharing formative childhood experiences.
Mwale is remembered as a multi-talented artist who excelled in various disciplines, including dance, music composition, singing, scriptwriting, acting, producing, and directing.
“He helped raise the Hwange flag high, not just nationally but internationally,” Molokele said.
The legislator expressed hope that Mwale’s legacy would inspire emerging artists from Hwange and beyond to pursue excellence in the performing arts.
His death has left a void in the local arts industry, particularly in Hwange’s coal mining community, where he was regarded as a cultural icon.
Funeral and memorial arrangements were held in Makwika Village.