After more than a decade away, award-winning actor Chrispen Nyathi is making an emotional return to Zimbabwe—a homecoming he describes as deeply personal and long overdue.
Best known for his role as Pastor Charleston in the hit Mzansi Magic drama DiepCity, Nyathi is set to be honoured this weekend by Chief Dakamela at the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards in the Nkayi District in Zimbabwe.
The two-day event, running from Friday to Saturday, will celebrate individuals making a meaningful impact in their communities. For Nyathi, the honour carries more than just prestige—it marks a spiritual reconnection with the land that shaped him.
Chrispen Nyathi’s Emotional Homecoming
“I’m excited to come back home and step on the soil that gave birth to me,” he told The Chronicle, reflecting on his return after 11 years. “This is an opportunity for me to stand barefoot on the land of my ancestors. Nothing is more important to me right now; the fact that I am home means everything.”
Raised in Emganwini and Sizinda in Bulawayo before moving to rural Bulilima, koMasendu, Nyathi eventually relocated to South Africa to pursue his acting career. Despite his success across the border, he has long carried a yearning to reconnect with his roots.
Chrispen Nyathi Finds True Belonging in Zimbabwe
“Being at my birthplace, at home, is priceless. This is the one place where, even without a passport, I don’t have to prove who I am. Here, I am free and truly accepted,” he said.
Nyathi’s recognition by Chief Dakamela comes at a time when he has been reflecting on his personal journey, including the inner battles he has fought along the way. Struggles with imposter syndrome and feelings of invisibility in his homeland once cast a shadow over his achievements.
“For a long time, I felt like I wasn’t acknowledged enough in Zimbabwe – I felt unseen. This invitation reassures me that my people have always had my back. Many have told me they thought I was unreachable, so this event is very important to me,” he said.
What is Imiklomela KaDakamela?
The Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards, also known as the Dakamela Achievers Awards, is an annual event initiated in 2022 by Chief Mbusi Bekithemba Dakamela of Nkayi, Zimbabwe. These awards aim to honour individuals and organisations for their significant contributions to society, particularly in preserving and promoting Ndebele culture and traditions.
The event serves as a platform for recognising excellence in various fields, including health, education, and social achievements.
Beyond the honour itself, Nyathi sees the event as a rare moment to build bridges between creatives and communities.
“This event provides a chance to interact and network with people from different backgrounds. You never know what opportunities may come from this,” he noted.
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