EDITOR — There is a time for every season.
A time to sow and a time to reap;
A time to rejoice and a time to weep;
A time to be born and a time to die.
The news of Cde Alexander Kanengoni’s death was without doubt, untimely.
My time of knowing Cde Kanengoni was short; however, for his family, colleagues, many friends and acquaintances, their time of knowing him could not have been long enough.
Although I had encountered him previously through his writings namely, When the Rain Bird Cries and his collection of short stories, I met Cde Kanengoni in person for the first time in November last year when he accepted with his open mind, my contributions for The Patriot and with his equally open heart, he accepted me.
Born on September 17 1951, Cde Kanengoni had a thirst for knowledge and for writing and a love for people and for life.
His door was always open; mentoring, counselling, advising and networking.
Always welcoming and ready for a chat.
Unlike many academics, he wrote simply, much like Ernest Hemmingway who believed books were for people to read, understand and enjoy.
Understandably, some of his writings have been chosen as set-books for Zimbabwean schools.
Today as we stand weeping on our old familiar shores bidding him fare thee well, we take comfort in the knowledge that as he reaches those new and distant shores, he will be met by old and new friends who will welcome him.
Zororai murugare VaKanengoni
Rest in Peace.
I will miss you

Dr Michelina Andreucci