Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE is mourning the death of former Warriors and Orlando Pirates striker Tendai “Fire” Ndoro, whose passing at the age of 40 has left family, friends and fans in deep grief.
Ndoro, who was found dead at his Sandton apartment in South Africa on Monday, rose from humble beginnings in Bulawayo’s Nketa 8 suburb to become one of the country’s finest exports, earning acclaim in the South African Premiership and representing Zimbabwe at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
At his family home yesterday, Ndoro’s father, Silas Mukundwa, confirmed that the former Warriors forward will be buried in Zimbabwe.
“We are still making contacts with those who are in South Africa. Tendai, our son, will be buried here at home,” he said.
He added: “Some family members and fans are still on their way. It has been a devastating situation but we are happy with the support we have been getting.”
Ndoro’s mother, Christina, invited former teammates and colleagues to celebrate his life.
“I invite all who played with Tendai to come and celebrate his life as someone who they played football with. There are many things that Tendai did for us as a family and we can’t mention all, but God knows what he did for us and he has taken him back,” she said.
His aunt, Seviria Chikomo, remembered him as a gifted footballer who captured the hearts of many.
“At first we thought it was a joke but they went on to shine, both Tendai and his twin brother. I remember watching him play for the Warriors at the National Sports Stadium. We will always remember this boy of great talent. May his Soul Rest in Peace,” she said.
Ndoro is survived by three children, Laizah (12), Cristiano (7), and Mukundi (3). His parents described him as a peace loving and soft spoken man whose sudden death has left them shattered.
In South Africa, former CAPS United and Warriors star Edelbert Dinha was among the first to visit Ndoro’s Sandton apartment, together with representatives from Zororo-Phumulani Funeral Company, as the football community rallied in support.
Ndoro’s journey began at Chicken Inn, where his explosive finishing quickly set him apart. He later starred for Mpumalanga Black Aces, Ajax Cape Town and Orlando Pirates, before also playing for Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly. His sharp eye for goal made him one of the most feared strikers in the DStv Premiership.
Former Warriors and Highlanders coach Mandla “Lulu” Mpofu, who mentored Ndoro through various stages of his career, paid a moving tribute.
“My heart is bleeding. I saw you grow . . . I nurtured you from being a boy to a very big boy among other boys. You became a man and a parent. You ran your race, Tendai. You left a legacy, a great player you were, played at the highest level and represented your country with pride. Rest in power,” said Mpofu.
Chicken Inn, where Ndoro first made his name, also expressed their sorrow.
“Our first import and export. We got him from Nico in Botswana. He came and added fire to our team. Forever a Gamecock. We are deeply saddened by his passing on as Chicken Inn FC. His light will forever shine in our hearts. Liqhawe Lethu. Rest Easy Fire,” said club spokesperson Nkululeko Nkala.
