KEY POINTS
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Popular fitness trainer Sensei Mugove “Mugo” Muhambi was laid to rest after dying in a road accident; he was honored by thousands in a citywide funeral procession.
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National leaders praised him as a unifier and wellness advocate who used sport to uplift communities, with possible plans to name a fitness center after him.
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He is survived by his wife and two children, and his death has prompted widespread tributes and calls for greater road safety awareness.
Renowned fitness trainer and martial arts instructor Sensei Mugove Muhambi, affectionately known as Sensei Mugo, was laid to rest on Monday at Epworth Cemetery, following a tragic road traffic accident that claimed his life over the weekend.
Herald online reports that the 44-year-old health enthusiast and decorated sportsman was remembered not only for his dedication to fitness but also for his profound impact as a community unifier and role model.
The accident, which occurred early Saturday morning along Harare Drive, shocked thousands of his followers and admirers across Zimbabwe and beyond.
A solemn yet powerful funeral procession began at his St Martins residence and moved along Seke Road and Chiremba Road, bringing traffic to a standstill as mourners joined the convoy on foot and in vehicles. Supporters carried banners bearing messages of love, while others wore martial arts uniforms in honor of his legacy as a Sensei who trained hundreds in physical discipline and mental resilience.
National leaders and sports personalities unite to bid farewell
Among the high-profile attendees were Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture Minister Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe, Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya, and Finance and Economic Development Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga. All spoke highly of Mugo’s character and his immeasurable contribution to youth development, health awareness, and national fitness campaigns.
“We are burying a man whose passion for wellness transcended sport and became a call to national consciousness,” said Minister Sanyatwe. “He embodied discipline, unity, and perseverance.”
Sensei Mugo rose to prominence over the last two decades as a pioneer of grassroots martial arts programs across Harare’s high-density suburbs.
He established multiple fitness boot camps and was a regular motivational speaker at schools, churches, and corporate wellness events.
Beyond his athletic prowess, he was also known for promoting unity through sport, often organizing inter-community tournaments and charitable fitness challenges aimed at empowering underprivileged youth. Many of his trainees have gone on to represent Zimbabwe in regional competitions.
Close family, friends, and colleagues described him as a dedicated husband, loving father, and mentor to many. He is survived by his wife, Tendai Muhambi, and their two young children.
“Sensei taught me to believe in myself. I was a street kid before I joined his dojo,” said Tawanda Moyo, one of his former students. “Now I’m a coach in my own right. He gave us purpose.”
Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation has hinted at plans to name one of the national community fitness centers after Muhambi as a way of preserving his legacy.
In the wake of his death, tributes continue to pour in on social media from fellow athletes, public figures, and ordinary citizens. Many have shared photos, training videos, and heartfelt messages celebrating a life lived with passion, discipline, and service.
The circumstances surrounding the road accident remain under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that poor visibility and speeding may have been contributing factors. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, particularly during early morning hours when many athletes take to the roads for training.
As the sun set over Epworth Cemetery, the air was filled with chants from his students, who performed a ceremonial martial arts salute before his casket was lowered into the ground. Their synchronized movements, set against a backdrop of tears and silence, served as a final tribute to a man whose life was defined by movement, strength, and heart.
