HARARE — Zimbabwean musician Jah Prayzah and his 3G The Band have withdrawn from the Jacaranda Music Festival following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, with the musician saying the tragedy has left him and his team unable to perform.

Jah Prayzah announced the decision as he and his family continued to mourn Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and the other victims of Wednesday’s helicopter crash in Marondera.

In a statement, the musician said the sudden loss had deeply affected his team.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share that 3G The Band and I will unfortunately not be able to perform at Jacaranda Music Festival today,” he said.

“Following the recent tragedy and loss that has deeply affected the entire team and me, we are simply not in a position to go on stage at this time.”

Jah Prayzah’s decision came after he issued a separate condolence message describing Chivayo as more than a friend.

“Wicknell was more than a friend to us. He was family, a brother, and someone who walked closely with us through many chapters of life,” he said.

He said the sudden death of Chivayo and Lucy had left him and those close to them heartbroken.

“Losing him together with Lucy in such a sudden way is a pain that is difficult to put into words,” he said.

The musician also extended his condolences to all families who lost loved ones in the crash.

Wedding Postponed

Following the tragedy, Jah Prayzah also announced the postponement of his wedding, which was scheduled for October 3.

The couple said the decision was made out of respect for the bereaved families and the need to grieve.

“Pane nguva yekuti zvimwe zvinhu zvese zvinofanira kumbomira,” the statement said.

“Out of love, respect and the need to grieve with family, our wedding, which was scheduled for 3 October, has been postponed.”

They said the wedding would proceed when the time was right.

“We will continue with our wedding plans when the time is right,” they said.

Festival Continues

Despite pulling out of the event, Jah Prayzah thanked the Jacaranda Music Festival organisers for their understanding and support.

He also urged fans who had planned to attend to continue supporting the festival, saying the event would proceed as scheduled.

The musician expressed appreciation for the messages of comfort and support he and his team have received following the tragedy.

Chivayo hired prominent US-based Chimurenga music icon Thomas Mapfumo to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding and birthday celebrations for a total of USD $1 million.

The musician has received numerous expensive gifts, including cars and cash, from the controversial businessman Chivhayo.

Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and other passengers died when a helicopter crashed in the Marondera area on Wednesday.