Veteran Actress Memory Bususu Dies After Stroke, Zimbabwe Mourns Television Icon
Zimbabwe is mourning veteran actress Memory Bususu, who died at the age of 71 after suffering a stroke, with fellow actors, broadcasters and fans remembering the television icon who graced local screens for decades.
Bususu passed away at Kwekwe General Hospital after being admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for a week, with her daughter Rumbidzai Machingambi confirming the death and announcing burial arrangements.
The news, confirmed on Monday, 13 April 2026, sparked an outpouring of tributes from across Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry and from fans who grew up watching her in productions such as Pfuma Ye Nhaka, Paraffin, Pedyo Kure, Rujeko and The Cook Off.
Her death marks the loss of one of Zimbabwe’s familiar television faces whose performances became part of many households.
Daughter Confirms Death After Stroke
According to The Herald, Bususu died on Sunday, 12 April 2026, after battling a stroke.
Her daughter, Rumbidzai Machingambi, confirmed the sad development and explained her mother’s final days.
“Mama died on Sunday after being admitted in the ICU for a week at Kwekwe General Hospital,” she said.
She also revealed that the veteran actress had recently been living in rural Midlands Province.
“She was now staying in Zhombe at her farm,” she added.
The family also confirmed that the late actress will be buried on Tuesday in Buhera.
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) also expressed condolences following the death of the veteran actress.
“The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe is deeply saddened by the passing of veteran actress Memory Bususu,” the organisation said.
“A versatile talent, Memory graced our screens in beloved drama series such as Parafin, Pfuma Ye Nhaka, and Ngozi.”
Fellow Actors And Industry Mourn
According to ZiFM Stereo, fellow actors Lovewell Chisango and Charity Dhlodhlo described Bususu as a disciplined and dedicated artist whose contribution to Zimbabwe’s arts industry will be remembered.
ZiFM Stereo reported that Bususu became a household name through various television productions spanning decades, earning admiration for her versatility and professionalism.
She appeared in productions including Pfuma Ye Nhaka, Paraffin, Pedyo Kure, Rujeko and The Cook Off.
Her performances, particularly in Paraffin, left a lasting impression among viewers.
Fans Recall Childhood Memories
Fans also took to social media to share memories and pay tribute to the late actress.
Presley Tatenda Gomo wrote:
“‘Amai Getty’ (in paraffin’s voice) Rest In Peace Amai.”
Russel Tati recalled one of her memorable roles:
“Mai Getty vakabatwa zvee nechimwe chikomba Paraffin nemakuhwa murume mukuru.”
Another fan, Hildah Rambanepasi, reflected on growing up around the actress:
“She was our elder sister tichikura kuLusaka Highfield. Go well vakoma.”
Others also remembered her iconic television roles. Tynoe Wako commented:
“Rest in peace mbuya vaMercedes.”
Chivara Hungwe Nyoni added:
“Auntie Memo we used to call her.”
Many fans described her as part of their childhood memories, with several noting her performances in 1990s television dramas.
The post Zimbabwe Mourns As Veteran Actress Memory Bususu Dies At 71 appeared first on iHarare News.
