Love Behind Bars: Felistas 'Mai TT' Murata Pours Encomiums on Husband Gilbert 'Shumba' Kandiado in Emotional Tribute
Written By:
Oudney Patsika,
the Editorial Strategist at
Sona Headlines
Master Steward at
Leaders Mandate AND
Editor-in-Chief & Vision Architect at
Polaris SuperBrands
In a powerful and emotional tribute that has taken social media by storm, Zimbabwean comedian, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Felistas Murata, popularly known as Mai TT, has opened up about the man who stood by her when her world fell apart. Fresh from their December 2025 wedding, Mai TT revealed that her husband, Gilbert “Shumba” Kandiado, was her unwavering source of strength during her 2023 imprisonment—proving that true love endures even the harshest trials.
Mai TT shared that while she was incarcerated, Kandiado went beyond emotional support. He reportedly paid her rent and essential bills and made the extraordinary sacrifice of travelling from the United Kingdom every two weeks to visit her in prison, offering hope when she felt abandoned by many.
Now, in a year marked by redemption, healing, and triumph, the Zimbabwean entertainment star has closed 2025 on a high note by marrying the man she calls her rock. Her tear-jerking testimony has resonated widely, inspiring fans and followers with a rare love story defined by loyalty, patience, and resilience. This is not just a wedding story—it is a powerful reminder that true love waits, endures, and restores.
“How He Waited for Mai TT Through Six Months in Prison”
Mai TT's tribute on Mai Ts Diaries revealed the depth of Kandiado's commitment. In 2023, while she served her sentence at Chikurubi Female Prison, Gilbert—then just a boyfriend—refused to walk away. Mai TT revealed he covered her $1,000 monthly rent in Chisipite and took full responsibility for her children’s welfare.
"Which man does that?" she asked emotionally. "Wait for me for 6 good months travelling from the Uk every 2 weeks visiting me behind bars. This was when I knew this is my man, he was there at my worst."
Addressing critics and naysayers, the "Advocate for Justice" made it clear that her bond with Gilbert is unbreakable. She noted that detractors tried to influence him to leave while she was at her lowest, but he stayed. "To those who wish it ends, you came late... This one is not going anywhere. When he was supposed to leave he didn’t, so what will make him leave now?"
Gilbert 'Shumba' Kandiado: The Man Behind the Smile
Known affectionately as "Shumba" (Lion), Gilbert Kandiado has been described as a stabilizing force in Mai TT's often turbulent public life. While the couple has reportedly been together for nearly five years, their relationship was solidified in the fires of adversity. He is often seen supporting her ventures, including her recent film "Lost in Ashes," expressing admiration for her "brilliant side" and resilience.
In a display of gratitude, Mai TT publicly vowed to upgrade her husband's lifestyle as her finances recover. "The Benz you drive is too small, I actually want to buy you a G Wagon because you deserve it," she wrote. Her devotion was further illustrated by her traditional Shona vow of service: "Chero kukugezesai Shumba, chero kukumiriray mutoilet ndoflasha" (I will even bathe you, Shumba, and wait to flush the toilet for you).
2025: A Year of Challenges, Triumphs, and Glory
Beyond her marriage, 2025 has been a renaissance year for Felistas Murata. She premiered her movie "Lost in Ashes," written during her incarceration, as a symbol of rehabilitation. She was also announced as the 2026 Brand Ambassador for Mandy Galvanised Wires ZW and continues her philanthropic work with the elderly in Murehwa.
True to their shared values of compassion, Mai TT and Gilbert recently visited Chikurubi Female Prison. Gilbert, through his company Gilbert Facilities Limited, donated early Christmas goodies and provided lunch for 257 inmates. He also pledged to clean several prisons after Mai TT shared the dire conditions faced by expectant mothers and babies behind bars.
“I run a cleaning company and that company will make sure some of the prisons are clean,” Gilbert promised, further solidifying his role as a supportive partner in Mai TT's advocacy work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mai TT is married to Gilbert Kandiado, popularly known as "Shumba." They officially celebrated their union in December 2025.
Reports indicate the couple has been together for nearly five years, with Gilbert staying by her side throughout her imprisonment in 2023.
While she was in prison, Gilbert paid her bills, took care of her children, and flew from the UK every two weeks to visit her, proving his loyalty.
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