Anotida Kimberly Maziriri and 23-year-old Eddmore Mafuwe were killed in a devastating car crash on Friday night, July 11, 2025, while travelling to attend Jah Prayzah’s highly anticipated "Ndini Mukudzeyi" concert in Edmonton.

The fatal incident occurred just hours before the award-winning musician was set to perform in the city, part of the Canadian leg of his "Ndini Mukudzeyi World Tour," which also included a second performance slated for Toronto on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

The Unfolding Tragedy: A Concert Journey Cut Short

Reports indicate that the accident transpired when the pair's vehicle reportedly failed to negotiate a sharp bend, resulting in a horrific crash. 

Both Anotida Maziriri and Eddmore Mafuwe tragically died at the scene, turning a journey planned for shared musical celebration into one of immense grief for their families and the wider Zimbabwean diaspora.

Jah Prayzah's Heartfelt Message: "Ndarwadziwa Zvikuru"

In a poignant Facebook post shared on Sunday, Jah Prayzah, whose real name is Mukudzeyi Mukombe, conveyed his deep anguish upon receiving news of the fatal incident.

"Ndarwadziwa zvikuru neshoko randafumira kugamuchira," he began, expressing deep hurt. "I have learnt of the passing of two young fans of mine, Anotida Maziriri and Edmore Mafuwe, who lost their lives in a tragic car accident while on their way to one of our shows in Canada."

The musician underscored the profound irony and pain of the situation, reflecting on his fans' dedication: "They had travelled far, simply to share a few hours of music and connection with us. To think they never made it to that moment hurts in a way I cannot explain."

Jah Prayzah extended his deepest sympathies directly to the grieving families. "Ndirikurwadziwa nekuchema pamwechete nemhuri dzavo. A journey that was planned to create only good memories became a journey that only left us with grief," he wrote, conveying his solidarity in their mourning.

He concluded his message with prayers for comfort and peace for the departed souls, promising a personal visit to the families upon his return to Zimbabwe: "To their families: may you be comforted. Ndinonamatira nyaradzo inobva kuna Mwari panguva ino yakaoma. When we return to Zimbabwe, I will also personally pass by and extend my condolences. Mweya yavo ngaizorore murugare."

Community Rallies: GoFundMe Campaigns Launched for Repatriation

In the wake of this devastating loss, the families of both victims swiftly launched GoFundMe campaigns to seek public assistance for the repatriation of their loved ones' bodies to Zimbabwe for dignified burials, as well as to cover associated funeral expenses. The response from the Zimbabwean diaspora and well-wishers worldwide has been immediate and strong.

For Anotida Kimberly Maziriri, fundraising efforts are being led by Aisher Magomo. A heartfelt family statement shared on the campaign page described Anotida as "a bright light in our lives—kind, loving, and deeply cherished," emphasizing how the sudden loss had "left our family devastated." As of late Sunday night, the campaign had already garnered CAD $8,434 towards its CAD $15,000 target.


Similarly, fundraising for Eddmore Mafuwe is being coordinated by Tinashe Mazibiye. Eddmore, who had moved to Canada in 2022 to study engineering, was remembered by his family as a cherished son. As of the same timeframe, his campaign had raised CAD $4,494 towards its CAD $15,000 goal.

The tragic loss has cast a shadow over the ongoing tour and deeply affected the Zimbabwean community, highlighting the strong bonds that connect its members across the globe as they unite in grief and support for the affected families.