Renowned gospel artist Darlington Mutseta, popularly known as Mambo Dhuterere, is facing serious marital issues, with reports suggesting he has distanced himself from his wife, Dorcas Vambe, who is eight months pregnant, and their four children.
The musician, who recently performed in the United Kingdom during the Easter break, declined to comment when approached for a statement, brushing off the issue with a curt, “Don’t mind them…”
His social media activity also raises eyebrows, as his last public post featuring his wife—affectionately called Mai Dhuterere—dates back to November, when he wished her a happy birthday and referred to her as his queen.
Sources close to the family claim that Mai Dhuterere is showing signs of emotional distress due to her husband’s lack of support. The family is reportedly struggling financially, living in a rented home in Harare, despite owning a plot of land that remains undeveloped.
Speaking in a brief interview, Mai Dhuterere confirmed her husband’s absence and expressed concern for both her mental health and the well-being of their unborn child. “I’ve kept quiet for a long time because of my condition. I’m worried this stress could affect the baby. Yes, he left, and I don’t have the strength to fight him. I just want him to return for the sake of our children,” she said.
Though reluctant to go into detail due to being in transit and in the company of others, she admitted that she has endured a difficult marriage in silence for years, hoping her husband would eventually change.
A family insider revealed that the couple’s marital challenges are long-standing, but Mai Dhuterere had tried to shield their public image. According to the source, things deteriorated further when she became pregnant, as Dhuterere allegedly began acting distant and withdrawn.
“He left with his documents and personal belongings. He looks like a good man in public, but he’s been verbally abusive at home, sometimes blaming her for his misfortunes,” said the insider. “There was even a time he accused her of bringing bad luck after he failed to receive a car from businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo.”
Their eldest child, from Dorcas’ previous relationship—whom Dhuterere had reportedly agreed to raise as his own—is also said to be deeply affected by the situation.
Further straining the marriage was Mai Dhuterere’s arrest in December 2023 on fraud charges involving US$16,000, related to a failed vehicle deal allegedly orchestrated with her brother. This legal battle appears to have been a breaking point for the relationship.
In a separate misfortune, Dorcas recently became a victim of burglary at her residence, with thieves making off with her laptop and cellphone. Although her passport was later found discarded outside, the experience has reportedly left her shaken.
In an effort to support her family, she is now said to be selling detergents to earn a living.
This isn’t the first time Dhuterere has faced personal difficulties. In 2023, he publicly shared his struggles with depression and took a break from performing, citing emotional and spiritual exhaustion. While he didn’t elaborate at the time, it coincided with rumors of infidelity.
“Turning down bookings and disappointing many… Please forgive me. I’m mentally and emotionally drained. Just need a bit of time to recover. I WILL BE BACK. In God we trust,” he posted on Facebook.
As fans watch the unfolding drama, many are left wondering whether the couple, once celebrated for their strong faith and unity, will find a path to reconciliation.
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