Curtain Call for a Television Legend: Zimbabwe Mourns Memory Bususu (1955–2026)

KWEKWE — Zimbabwe’s arts community is in mourning following the passing of veteran actress Memory Bususu, who died at the age of 71. A beloved household name for decades, Bususu passed away on Sunday, April 12, at Kwekwe General Hospital after suffering a stroke. The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) described her as a "versatile talent" whose performances in iconic dramas such as Paraffin, Pfuma Ye Nhaka, and Ngozi defined an era of Zimbabwean television.

Her daughter, Rumbidzai Machingambi, confirmed that the actress had spent her final week in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). In recent years, Bususu had retired to her farm in Zhombe, Midlands Province, finding peace in the rural landscape after a storied career in the spotlight.

Burial Arrangements:

• Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

• Location: Buhera.

Fellow actors and broadcasters expressed deep sadness at the loss of a peer known for her discipline and professionalism.

• Lovewell Chisango and Charity Dhlodhlo lauded her as a dedicated artist who mentored many in the industry.

• National Arts Council (NACZ): "Memory graced our screens in beloved series... her contribution to the cultural fabric of Zimbabwe is immeasurable."

Memory Bususu was perhaps most famously remembered as "Mai Getty" in the legendary series Paraffin, where her chemistry with the late Baba Paraffin became the stuff of Zimbabwean television folklore. Her career spanned traditional dramas to modern cinema, including a role in the internationally acclaimed film "The Cook Off."

Notable Filmography:

• Paraffin

• Pfuma Ye Nhaka

• Pedyo Kure

• Rujeko

• Ngozi

• The Cook Off

On social media, the outpouring of grief was tinged with nostalgia. Fans recalled her as a "big sister" from the high-density suburbs like Highfield, while others quoted her famous lines. One fan reflected, "She was part of our childhood memories... watching her was a weekend ritual in the 90s."

Memory Bususu actress death 2026