ZANU-PF Musician Chief Hwenje Battles Cancer, Retreats to Rural Home for Healing

ZANU-PF musician Chief Hwenje is facing the toughest battle of his life after being diagnosed cancer.

Chief Hwenje, born Admire Sanyanga Sibanda, was diagnosed with lymphoma, a type of blood cancer affecting the immune system. The 37-year-old artist, known for his energetic stage performances and signature dreadlocks, has retreated to his rural home in Shanyura village to focus on healing away from the public eye.

The cancer diagnosis has significantly impacted his health, forcing him to cut off his iconic locks and undergo critical surgery and treatment.

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ZANU-PF Musician Chief Hwenje Diagnosed With Cancer

The musician spoke to Sunday Mail:

“The lymphomas have spread throughout my body, and doctors recommended surgery to remove some of them before they develop further. I am in pain, and sometimes the attacks are so severe that I cannot move or talk.”

Once a towering figure of vitality, Chief Hwenje now finds himself a shadow of his former self, grappling with weight loss and the grueling effects of his illness. His deteriorating condition has forced him to cancel several shows, and for the few he managed to perform, he relied heavily on pain medication.

“It hurts to see fans calling for more when my body cannot deliver. Some promoters and fans think I’m big-headed, but they don’t understand what I’m going through. Sometimes, I have to take extra medication just to stay on stage.”

Coping With The Chronic Illness

Despite his struggles, Chief Hwenje continues to find solace in music. He is converting his great-grandfather’s house into a studio, a symbolic project close to his heart. However, his health challenges have delayed the release of his upcoming album, Chiedza chaSamere, initially set for December.