Mugabe, My Dad and Me

Tonderai Munyevu's one-man show, "Mugabe, My Dad, and Me," explores the rise and fall of Robert Mugabe through the lens of Tonderai's family story and his relationship with his father.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 18 February 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Something strange happens when the past comes crashing into you, right in the present. April 1980. The British colony of Rhodesia becomes the independent nation of Zimbabwe. A born-free, Tonderai Munyevu is part of the hopeful next generation from a country with a new leader, Robert Mugabe. Mugabe, My Dad, and Me charts the rise and fall of one of the most controversial politicians of the 20th century through the lens of Tonderais family story and his relationship with his father. Interspersing storytelling with Mugabes unapologetic speeches, this high-voltage one-man show is a blistering exploration of identity and what it means to return home.

Tonderai Munyevu was born in 1960, just a few years after the country gained its independence from British rule. He grew up in a small village in rural Zimbabwe, where his family had been farmers for generations. His father, who had been a freedom fighter during the countrys struggle for independence, was a respected figure in the community.

Despite their relative prosperity, Tonderai and his family faced many challenges as a result of the countrys political instability and economic downturn. Mugabe, who became the countrys president in 1980, was known for his controversial policies and his treatment of opposition leaders and ethnic minorities. Tonderai and his father, who supported Mugabe, were often subjected to harassment and discrimination by government officials.

Despite these challenges, Tonderai and his family remained committed to their country and their faith. Tonderai studied hard at school and eventually earned a scholarship to study at a university in the United States. He returned to Zimbabwe after completing his studies and worked as a teacher and community organizer.

Tonderai and his father remained close throughout their lives, despite the political differences that often divided their country. Tonderai continued to work for social justice and equality in Zimbabwe, even as the country faced continued political and economic challenges.

Mugabe, My Dad, and Me is a powerful and moving play that explores the complex relationship between a father and son, and the political and social context in which they live. Tonderai Munyevu is a talented actor who brings his own experiences and emotions to the role, creating a deeply personal and powerful performance.

The play also provides a fascinating insight into the life and career of Robert Mugabe, one of the most controversial politicians of the 20th century. Mugabe, who rose to power as a freedom fighter and became the first black president of Zimbabwe, was known for his authoritarianism, his treatment of opposition leaders, and his policies that led to the countrys economic collapse.

Mugabe, My Dad, and Me is a must-see for anyone who is interested in politics, history, or the human experience. It is a powerful and thought-provoking play that will leave you thinking long after the curtain has fallen.

Weight: 72g
Dimension: 130 x 196 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350186071