THE absence of Wanga Zulu, affectionately known by fans as Mai Guru has left more than just a gap in the Zambezi magic series Mpali, where she portrayed the matriarch of the on-screen polygamous home for seven unforgettable years.
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Her laughter no longer feels the breaks between takes, her wisdom no longer guides the scenes and her unmistakable presence is now a memory etched in the hearts of all who worked with her as they waved her goodbye.
This morning, scores of mourners gathered at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka to pay their final respect to Amai Guru.
Pouring an emotional tribute to their co- screen wife, Samatha Zulu, popularly known as Lindiwe and representing the Nguzu wives said in as much as the set feels emptier, her presence has not faded because her line has not gone out, instead, it has simply moved from the screen into their hearts.
“Mai guru showed us that the woman’s dignity is her crown and that family is a sacred place that must be guarded with love, truth and patience and off screen, she wasn’t different,” said Zulu.
“Mai guru, you reminded us that strength can be gentle, influence can be humbled. You may have taken your last breath but your stories will continue to live on because heroes come and heroes go.”
A tearful Monde Mutale widely recognised as Nguzu, who shared the screen with mai guru as her husband, remembered her as a gentle soul whose faith in God guided everything she did.
“Wanga, you told me that we are not mortal and one day. We are going to see the King. Indeed, God has a way of making things happen and it has happened,” Nguzu said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Art permanent secretary Kangwa Chileshe added that mai guru’s dedication to her craft and her passion for storytelling have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
“Government remains committed to strengthening the cultural sector, the creative sector, the space where artists like Wanga Zulu are given so much to tell stories. As government, we reaffirm our resolve to improve the welfare of our creatives,” he added.
Mai guru leaves behind a husband, five children and three grandchildren.
Her final days followed a stroke that led to her admission at Levy Mwanawasa Hospital, where she peacefully passed on October 10, 2025.
Through heartfelt tributes, soul-stirring songs and moving performances, mourners painted a vivid picture of the woman Zulu was, the light she brought into their lives, and the irreplaceable void her passing has left in their hearts.
Pictures and story by Sharon Zulu
Kalemba October 14, 2025
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