By Nyashadzashe Ndoro: Our Correspondent reports from Zimbabwe
Desire “Moyoxide” Moyo, the Member of Parliament for Nkulumane (Picture via Facebook – Desire Moyo)
BULAWAYO – The Zimbabwean arts and political communities are in mourning following the tragic death of Desire “Moyoxide” Moyo, the Member of Parliament for Nkulumane constituency, in a road accident early on Friday, October 10, 2025.Zimbabwe travel deals
Moyo, who was 45 and a highly acclaimed poet and former teacher, died instantly when the vehicle he was traveling in collided with an elephant near Shangani, about 100 kilometers northeast of Bulawayo on the Harare-Bulawayo highway.
The ccurred as Moyo and four colleagues were returning to Bulawayo from Parliament in Harare.
Mr. Moyo was pronounced dead at the scene. He would have celebrated his 46th birthday the following day, Saturday.
The four other occupants of the vehicle survived the crash but sustained serious injuries. They were identified as Madalaboy Ndebele, Senator Rittah Ndlovu, Sethulo Ndebele, and Libion Sibanda. All four were transported to Gweru General Hospital for medical treatment.
Arts doyen Saimon “Mambazo” Phiri confirmed in a telephone interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub that he was among those who went to the accident scene to identify the body.
Mr. Moyo’s remains are currently being transported to Bulawayo.
Observers say Moyo’s death represents a profound loss to the nation’s creative sector. A decorated poet and educator, he dedicated much of his life to fostering the arts as an administrator.
His roles included serving as the executive director of Victory Siyanqoba Trust, as well as the artistic director and director of Eziko Theatre Laboratory. These positions cemented his reputation as a fervent champion for arts and culture in Zimbabwe.Zimbabwe travel deals
The news of the MP’s passing comes shortly after the arts community was rocked by the death of another prominent figure, Babongile Sikhonjwa.
Mourners are currently gathering at Moyo’s residence, House Number 11732, Nkulumane 11, Bulawayo.
Residents of Nkulumane were observed, during the time of writing, pausing their morning routines to pay respects to their representative and creative icon, with many arriving at the residence visibly emotional and in disbelief.
Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart paid his tribute to Moyo saying “he will be deeply missed.”
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the untimely and sudden death today of Hon Desire Moyo in a road traffic accident,” he said.
“Aside from being an MP Hon Moyo was a Poet and a respected resident of City of Bulawayo. Tragically he died before his birthday tomorrow and he published the attached poem in anticipation and celebration of this. He will be deeply missed.
“My sincere condolences are extended to his family, friends and colleagues. May his soul rest in peace.
“My prayers are with his family and also with the other MPs injured in the same accident Hon. Madalaboy Ndebele, Senator Ritah Ndlovu, Sethulo Ndebele and Libion Sibanda. I wish them all a speedy and full recovery.
