Life is very unfair! The streets of Chiredzi, a town known for its bustling markets and vibrant culture, can testify to this adage as they have temporarily fallen silent following the loss of Tatenda, a well-known homeless man whose life was cut short under a tree near the Labamba Beerhall.
His passing, discovered on a Sunday afternoon, has raised a cloud of sadness and concern through the sugarcane-farming town, highlighting the vulnerability of those living on the fringes of society.
Tatenda, a familiar face to many in Chiredzi, was a man who had become a silent testament to the harsh realities of life on the streets. His presence was a constant reminder of the invisible struggles faced by those who lack a home, a family, and a safety net. He was often seen walking the streets, his leg bearing a large, untreated scar, a silent plea for help that went unanswered.
“He was a quiet man, always kept to himself,” recounted a local shopkeeper who often saw Tatenda. “He would come in occasionally to ask for a bit of food, and we would always try to help him out. It’s heartbreaking to think that he’s gone.”
The news of Tatenda’s death, discovered behind the Labamba Beerhall, spread like wildfire through the town, leaving many wondering about the circumstances surrounding his passing. The cause of death remains unknown, with some residents speculating that the cold weather may have played a role.
“It was a cold Sunday,” said a local resident who witnessed the aftermath. “The poor man was just lying there, lifeless. It’s a reminder that even in our own town, there are people struggling to survive, and sometimes, they don’t make it.”
The police, who are investigating the incident, have confirmed Tatenda’s death, but the cause remains a mystery.
“We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of the deceased,” stated Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa.
