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Sophia Chese Arts Correspondent
Veteran actress Pretty Xaba is battling cancer of the oesophagus which was diagnosed two months ago.
In an interview with The Herald Entertainment, Xaba said she was recuperating from home after taking her medication.“I started having some pain on my throat and for a time I ignored it until it became serious. I went to see a doctor and was told that I have been attacked by cancer of the oesophagus. I was given some medication which I am currently taking,” she said.

According to medical websites, oesophageal cancer is described as cancer arising from the foodpipe that runs between the throat and the stomach.

Symptoms often include trouble swallowing and weight loss. Other symptoms may include pain with swallowing, a hoarse voice, enlarged lymph nodes (glands) around the clavicle (collarbone), a dry cough, and possibly coughing up or vomiting blood.

Xaba said she is responding well to treatment.

“I am glad that I am responding to treatment. I am feeling much better now,” she said.

Xaba is popularly known as Siphilisiwe or Mai Muwengwa. With these names many will recognise her as the woman with sublime skills in the Zimbabwean acting sector.

She featured on a number of local dramas including “Xola” produced by King Dube, “Coliwe”, “I want a dress” by Tsitsi Dangarembga, “Everyone’s Child”, “Studio 263”, “Lobola” among others.

She also had several roles in a number of radio productions and a lot of educational videos for a number of organisations.

Xaba is optimistic that she will be well and thanked fellow artistes for their unwavering support during this time.

“At least all those I have worked with have shown love and have given me support. They come to see me almost every day and I’m just grateful. I can’t ask for more.

“Tatenda Mavetera, Tendai Chakanyuka, Tavonga Mafundikwa, Tinopona Katsande, Mbudziyadhura, the list is endless, they all have shown support,” she said.