The Sunday News
Peter Matika, Senior Life Reporter
THE name Austen Moyo probably doesn’t ring a bell nor will it tinker the slightest image of the person who bears the name . . . He barely needs an introduction, as his giant body stature attracts much attention every time he steps into a room.
Standing at approximately two metres tall and weighing 123kgs, Austen or rather Malume as he is warmly known, a fortnight ago marked a milestone birthday, as he celebrated 50 years of life.
In celebrating his half decade, Malume, his colleagues and acquaintances organised and held a dazzling birthday bash only befitting a king, in Bulawayo’s Mzilikazi suburb.
The event attracted the attention of popular Bulawayo socialites such as Nyarie, businesswoman and artiste, Sarah Mpofu-Sibanda, and even had guests coming from as far as Marondera and South Africa.
In total an estimated 200 guests attended the party, where Malume broke down the numbers: “150 were invited and gate crashers contributed to the rest of the figure. It was a big party.”
He told Sunday Life that he owed it all to God.
“I thank God for taking care of me up until this age. It is not many people that make it to this age. My brothers died before they got to the age of 40 and this is why I feel blessed,” he said.
A teacher by profession Malume said he did his own deco and menu, as he runs a deco and catering company — Aussie Catering and Hire Services (ACHC).
“There wasn’t a specific budget but because of the friends and family I have this party was mega. We all contributed to make it big,” he said.
The party held on 6 February, started at 8pm and went on until the following day.
“The party really didn’t have a theme but all were dressed to kill, literally. I presented myself in my favourite Nigerian outfit, which I designed,” he said.
Malume said he was presented with five cakes, each marking a decade.
“The cakes were ‘donated’ by friends, family and business associates. Each of the cakes was significant in marking the number of years I have lived,” he said.
Malume shared his secret to attaining 50 years of age, a figure, which many don’t live to see.
“It is important to have a relationship with God. Make the best of your life and never have regrets. Live a healthy life, by so doing knowing what is good for your body. Do not abuse substances. Most of all have a good diet and be positive about life,” said Malume.
