Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere [email protected]
BULAWAYO is set to come to a standstill on Wednesday as the city hosts an elaborate homecoming celebration for Comrades Marathon star Nobukhosi Nobuhle Tshuma, whose achievements have brought pride to Zimbabwe and the athletics fraternity.
According to the draft programme, the day-long festivities will begin with an airport reception from 8am, where Tshuma will be welcomed by stakeholders, running clubs, supporters, media and officials before embarking on a motorcade to Makokoba Township, where she will reconnect with the community that nurtured her journey.
Draft Programme.pdf
The celebrations are expected to have a strong cultural and historical flavour. After interacting with residents in Makokoba, Tshuma will proceed to the Joshua Nkomo Statue in the city centre before visiting the Joshua Nkomo Museum in Matsheumhlophe, where there will be a guided tour and reflections on legacy, excellence and service. Media interviews and photo opportunities are also scheduled.
Draft Programme.pdf
Attention will then shift to Bulawayo City Hall, where an official ceremony will bring together civic leaders and athletics stakeholders. Representatives from the City of Bulawayo, the Bulawayo Athletics Board (BAB), the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ), the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) and the Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project are expected to pay tribute to the long-distance runner.
Draft Programme.pdf
The programme will also feature presentations of messages and tokens of appreciation from stakeholders, running clubs and sponsors before the guest of honour delivers the keynote address. Tshuma herself is scheduled to respond before Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart presents a commemorative citation in recognition of her achievements.
Draft Programme.pdf
A press conference and meet-and-greet session with athletes, supporters and the media will conclude the celebrations in the afternoon.
Draft Programme.pdf
Adding colour to the occasion, athletes who participated in the 2026 Comrades Marathon will form guards of honour both at the airport and City Hall. Clad in their red Comrades regalia and carrying Zimbabwean flags and medals, they are expected to provide a fitting tribute to a woman whose exploits have inspired many aspiring runners across the country.
Draft Programme.pdf
The event is expected to attract athletics enthusiasts, civic leaders and members of the public eager to celebrate one of Bulawayo’s distinguished sporting ambassadors.
@FungaiMuderere
