The Tariro Family with great sadness announces the passing of Chengetai our beloved son and brother. He was a young man with a vibrant soul who left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew him. Chengetai was just 31 years old when he departed, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and dedication. He was a beloved member of the Tariro Youth Project; Tariro family. Growing up at Tariro House, he was not only one of our eldest brothers but also a shining example of humility, love and devotion. Chenge was always happy!!

His journey was one of discovery and passion. He began his career in catering and hospitality, where he honed his skills and developed a strong work ethic. However, it was not until he discovered his passion for farming that he truly found his calling. His love for the land and his desire to cultivate and nurture it was evident in everything he did. He then went to Honde Valley to manage a piggery project which he did successfully. He also grew maize, beans and cabbage.

But Chenge’s life was not just about his professional pursuits. He was a devout Anglican  who had strong faith, loved praying and attended church every Sunday; a passionate Christian. He was an active parishioner at a local church in Honde Valley; Maronda Mashanu Parish. Here he joined the Church youth group and did pastoral work religiously. His faith was a source of strength and comfort to him, an inspiration to many; he was such a living testimony. Chenge’s leadership was inspiring, and he led by example in many ways. His commitment to prayer was remarkable, and he was always willing to serve others.

What struck everyone who knew Chenge was his humility, kindness and caring nature. He was always smiling and his presence light up the room. His love for others was evident in everything he did and he had a special gift for making everyone feel valued and appreciated. A true ambassador of Tariro Youth Project whose 3 pillars are Hope, Faith and Love. Chenge set goals and achieved them; now that he was more mature, he was thinking of settling down and planning on getting married. So, Chenge bought a piece of land close to his work place and had started developing it. He also bought some goats and chickens: impressive! Chenge’s passing has left us numb, mum, shell shocked, devasted and so heartbroken!

When Chenge passed on, the Tariro family was devasted! However, as we gathered in Honde Valley to celebrate his life, we were reminded of the impact Chenge had on those around him. The funeral arrangements and service were a testament to the love and respect that Chenge had earned from the surrounding community. Tuesday, the night of the vigil, we did not sleep, Tariro family and Maronda Mashanu Parishioners as well as the surrounding communities sang and danced and praised God throughout the night.

The requiem mass, a cerebration of Chenge’s life was led by Rev Canon Mutasa (Baba) together with his fellow trustees, Rev Motsi & Rev Chigwanda and we were honored by the presence of The Very Rev Kuzinya, Dean of the Cathedral of St John’s, Manicaland; a beautiful send off with love, dignity and compassion, providing comfort and solace to the mourners.

We later gathered for lunch, shared speeches and testimonies of Chenge’s life; beautiful and touching memories…..Chenge was a pure soul! The meal was a somber one; a time for fellowship and reflection, as we remembered our beloved son and  brother’s kindness, humility and love.

At 12 noon, we proceeded to the burial site, where we paid our last respect; a beautiful ceremony.

We are grateful for the short but sweet time we had with Chenge, the lessons he taught us about humility, love and kindness. We are truly grateful for the wonderful memories we shared with him, memories that will stay with us forever.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended Chenge’s funeral and celebrated his life with us. Your presence, your love and support was such a comfort to the Tariro family during this tragic time.

Chenge, our constant reminder that it is possible to have a bright smile and a loving heart at all times!