Bulawayo is mourning the loss of two figures who were part of the city’s education, literature, arts and cultural life, following the deaths of renowned educationist and author Mrs Ericah Gwetai and vintage culture custodian Archibald “Father K” Mumbamarwo.

Gwetai and Father K both passed on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Born on February 2, 1942, Gwetai spent much of her life in education before developing a body of work as an author.

Her books include: Embracing the Cactus; Realities; Petal Thoughts: Yvonne Vera and The Other Side, among others.

Her writing covered social issues, personal experiences and different aspects of life.

Her contribution to Zimbabwe’s creative sector was recognised in 2023 when she received the Icon Award at the Bulawayo Arts Awards.

Gwetai was also the mother of the late Zimbabwean author Yvonne Vera. While Vera became widely known for her contribution to Zimbabwean literature, Gwetai established her own identity through her work in education and writing.

To many education remained an important part of her life, with her work as a teacher centred on nurturing young people. Through her writing, she also found a way to share her experiences and ideas with a wider audience.

The city is also mourned the pass away of Mumbamarwo, popularly known as Father K, who was the founder of Western Khazins.

The Bulawayo-based collective represented more than music, with its work connected to fashion, dance and identity. Father K became associated with the city’s vintage culture and was known for his contribution to keeping that culture visible.

His work with Western Khazins brought together different aspects of Bulawayo’s cultural scene, creating a space where music, fashion and dance were part of a wider expression of identity.

The deaths of Gwetai and Father K have come at a time when Bulawayo is reflecting on the contribution of people who have played different roles in the city’s cultural life.

Gwetai’s contribution was rooted in education and literature, while Father K’s was closely connected to music, fashion, dance and vintage culture.

Their work came from different parts of the city’s creative landscape, but both became recognised figures in their respective fields.

The two icons where both buried on Monday the 21st of September. The icon Ma Gwetai was buried in Bulawayo and Father K in Harare.