Boss Matsanga: The Hilarious Heartbeat of Zimbabwean Comedy.

By Regina Pasipanodya

For someone who makes everyone crack their ribs by just the thought of watching his gags, Comedian “Boss Matsanga” is dreaming of producing a movie like that of Mr Bean.

“I always see visions of its reality written in bold, “Boss Matsanga in London.”

Born Enerst Mavaza (36), Boss Matsanga grew up in Chikwaka Mavaza where his dream of comic acting was nurtured.

“I started acting when I was in grade 3 at St. Jude’s Mavaza and this was something I felt attached to because whenever I go up on the stage be it at school or church, I can’t explain the feeling I had it was something majestic and I would play my role from the heart,” he told Zimba Wave News in an exclusive interview.

The name ‘Boss Matsanga’ originated from the famous Mozambican anti-communist rebel and leader of RENAMO, ‘Matsangaissa.

Growing up, he was nicknamed ‘Matsanga’ because he was rebellious by nature.
“I wasn’t fond of bathing or wearing a shirt. I would spend most of my time in the bush scouting for something I can take home for a relish. I was just fearless,” said Boss Matsanga.

In 2007, he left his rural home for the big city, Harare in search of greener pastures.

I started singing as ‘Born Free’ but later changed to Boss Matsanga when I started acting.

Boss Matsanga’s dream of becoming a star became a reality when he became part of Naiza Boom acting alongside Dhafu and Jethro.

In 2012, after being inspired by Nollywood actors like Osofia, Mr. Ibbu and Zimbabwean actors like Paraffin, Tim naBonzo and Kapfupi.

He scooped the YouTube Award for reaching 50K subscribers in 2012 and currently he has more than 150K subscribers

Unlike other comedians of his age who find fun in politics, Boss Matsanga has always been concerned about the welfare of the youth in his community.

“I like to focus more on projects that impact my community like those teaching about the dangers of drugs and substance abuse. However, some of my projects have been affected by financial constraints. For instance, I might have this big idea in my head but to find scenes that best suit the idea could be expensive so I end up compromising everything or dropping it completely”, said Boss Matsanga.

But for those who would want to know Boss Matsanga away from the spotlight, here is what might interest you about his life, family and career.

The comedian, who was born seventh out of nine children, likes game meat and anything traditional (with peanut butter).

He is a father of two girls, one aged 11 and the other one three years.
Unlike his family and relatives who have stood by him through thick and thin, Boss Matsanga’s wife left him in 2022 after they realized that their goals in life were not the same and he has never been married since.

“I have always supported my children in whatever way I can, be it financially or making sure they feel my presence,” said Boss Matsanga.
He has been working as a driver for about 9 years but has to leave all that to pursue his career in acting.
“Driving was okay but it did not give me that sense of fulfillment. I am passionate about acting, that is why I had to make a tough decision to quit driving and focus on acting on what I love best.”
The biggest challenge to my acting passion is money. I struggle every day to make ends meet. The only money that we get comes from YouTube, sometimes we get around USD200 and we have to share it amongst the group.
“So I end up surviving from the small incentives that I get from well-wishers who like my work.”

One of his famous comedies ‘Muroora akadai ungamudii’, is a drama that reflects how other daughters-in-laws, especially those from big cities, fail to adjust according to their new families. They tend to be adamant and end up disrespecting the in-laws. Furious, Boss Matsanga responded furiously with a catapult.

“Ndokunama nendandi (i will shut you up with a catapult)”, he said in the act.

This year he wishes to collaborations with other comedians and singers. Other Africans and internationally.