Dennis Ndlovu
Sports Reporter
The Zimbabwean martial arts fraternity is grappling with a double tragedy following the passing of Naison Masaka, a close confidant of the late karate legend Sensei Mugove “Mugo” Muhambi.
Masaka, 58, suffered a fatal stroke days after Muhambi died in a car accident on 17 May, leaving the community in collective grief.
Masaka and Muhambi shared a decades-long partnership, collaborating on karate initiatives and nationwide wellness programs.
Their work profoundly impacted Zimbabwe’s fitness and martial arts sectors, fostering discipline and health advocacy.
Masaka collapsed shortly after learning of Muhambi’s sudden death.
“It never rains but pours. He had a stroke upon hearing the news,” said a close associate.
Former Norton MP Temba Mliswa, a schoolmate and collaborator, added:
“This is another painful loss. He was rushed to the hospital yesterday but couldn’t pull through.”
At Muhambi’s burial in Epworth on Sunday, Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture Hon. Gen. (Rtd) Ambassador Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe hailed the late sensei as a “sporting hero” who elevated Zimbabwe’s profile through karate.
“From 2000 to 2013, he represented our nation with pride, winning numerous international medals,” Sanyatwe stated.
The dual deaths have sparked an outpouring of tributes, with plans underway for a joint memorial to honor their legacy.
“This will celebrate their contributions and offer closure to those they inspired,” a family representative revealed.
Muhambi’s accident and Masaka’s subsequent passing underscore the fragility of life, yet their enduring impact remains undeniable.
Colleagues describe the pair as “pillars of perseverance,” whose programs transformed lives in underserved communities.
The karate community has called for heightened support for wellness initiatives to cement their mentors’ vision.
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