Calvin Dondo Remembered: Veteran Zimbabwean Photographer Laid to Rest

Affable visual artist and photographer Calvin Dondo, who passed away over the weekend at Mvurwi Hospital, was buried on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Warren Hills Cemetery in Harare. He was 62.

Dondo had been unwell for some time, and his passing marks a significant loss to Zimbabwe’s creative and photographic community. Known for his commitment to elevating visual arts, he was instrumental in bringing the World Press Photo celebrations to Zimbabwe, creating a platform for local and international storytelling through images.

Family spokesperson and brother, Charles Dondo, described him as a quiet man whose work spoke louder than words. “He was a pillar of the family and a quiet person who enjoyed his work. We are burying him this afternoon at Warren Hills Cemetery. We have lost a loving brother, father and genius all in one,” he said.

Dondo is survived by three daughters. Beyond being a family man, he was a trailblazer who inspired younger photographers to explore bold themes and narratives.

He studied photography at Harare Polytechnic between 1985 and 1988, where his foundation in visual storytelling began. Over the years, he rose to prominence both locally and internationally. His first monograph, “Hodhi Zimbabwe,” published in 2014, offered a striking visual narrative of Zimbabwean life and culture.

Dondo’s career highlights include representing Zimbabwe at the 54th Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious international art exhibitions. He also showcased his work at the Havana Biennale, the Paris Photo Exhibition, and exhibited multiple times at the Bamako Encounters, the African Biennale of Photography. These global platforms positioned him as one of Zimbabwe’s most respected and visible cultural ambassadors in visual art.

Colleagues and admirers remember him not only for his artistic achievements but also for his generosity in nurturing emerging talent. His ability to capture everyday realities with depth and honesty made him a standout figure in Zimbabwean art circles.

Calvin Dondo leaves behind a legacy defined by dedication, creativity, and resilience. His contribution to Zimbabwean and African photography will continue to influence future generations, ensuring that his vision lives on through the images he created and the impact he made on the industry.