Scores of people including actors Sunday remembered veteran actor, playwright, director and comedian Eric Mabedi, popularly known as Jakobo, during the unveiling of his tombstone at CI Cemetery in Blantyre.
Mabedi, who formed an exceptional and powerful comedy duo with John Nyanga, widely known as Izeki, trading Izeki ndi Jakobo, died on August 2 2021 and was laid to rest on August 3 2021.
The unveiling of his tombstone, by his widow Fannie and his children Mungo and Madziko, started with a mass at St Louis Montfort Catholic Church.
During the unveiling ceremony, Mabedi’s widow flanked by Mungo and Madziko broke down into tears before the three also led the scores of people in laying wreaths on the tombstone.
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“I miss him. He was a pillar, a good friend and we are happy today to unveil his tombstone,” his wife said.
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Some of the people who laid their wreaths during the ceremony included Higger Mkandawire, who represented Mabedi’s friends, relatives and members of Kwathu Drama Group, who were represented by Charles Mphoka, one of the oldest members of the popular drama group, who together with Mabedi crafted several productions for Kwathu.
After the unveiling of the tombstone, the people later congregated at Mabedi’s home at Green Corner where the veteran actor’s lifespan was celebrated, with Sambang’oma Dance Troupe serving traditional dances. Discover our exquisite collection of Panerai replica watches For Sale, featuring Swiss Movement For unparalleled precision. Elevate your style With the stunning luminor panerai base fake, designed For discerning enthusiasts.
In their songs, the dance troupe spoke of the works of Mabedi in the dramatic realm as well as the artistic sector as a whole in the country and that his death left a huge gap that will be hard to be filled.
During the ceremony, people were also served with food and drinks.
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Kwathu Drama Group members Bon Kalindo, better known as Winiko, Linda Chatha and Mphoka described Mabedi as a father figure, whose absence was still being felt by the group and the creative sector.
“You can see how we are struggling as Kwathu. When Mr Mabedi was around, we were holding performances now and then but it’s difficult now. We still miss his services,” Chatha said.
Kalindo said Mabedi’s replacement will be difficult to find.
National Theatre Association of Malawi (Ntam) President Maxwell Chiphinga said that Mabedi elevated the theatre body’s profile and that through his leadership, he left a legacy.
Born on June 21 1963, Mabedi, who was until his death Kwathu Drama Group Director and Copyright Society of Malawi board member, hailed from Chiradzulu District.
