From shadows to luminaries- Unveiling Nkulumane’s tale of Star Force and stature

THOSE with sharp memories can vividly recall the emergence of a formidable terror syndicate known as Star Force originating from the unassuming enclave of Bulawayo’s Nkulumane suburb.

Taking root within the hallowed halls of Jason Ziyaphapha High School on an eventful October 12 in 1992, Star Force was masterminded into existence by the enigmatic Casper Maphosa. In its zenith, the gang swelled its ranks to an astonishing 79 members, the youngest among them a mere 12-year-old.

The curtain was raised on their nefarious exploits when a young protégé coldly ended the life of a security sentinel at Munyoro Shopping Centre, sending shockwaves through the community. The figure behind their reign of terror was none other than the ruthless Andrew Mutonono. Their audacity knew no bounds and this was confirmed when they compelled Nketa High School pupils to stand in formation, belting out the national anthem.

With precision they orchestrated a symphony of crime — pillaging, burglary, robbery and even sleight-of-hand.
Their reign, however, met a decisive end at the hands of law enforcement and the once-invincible founder, Maphosa, has since found solace in the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In the history of the suburb, Star Force remains etched as both a paragon of infamy and an exemplar of notoriety. Nkulumane, bearing the name of King Mzilikazi’s progeny, has, nevertheless, played host to a cohort of illustrious residents, elevating its stature as a beacon of community and accomplishment.

Among its proud alumni are two former mayors and six esteemed Aldermen, including the indomitable Alderman Thaba Moyo, the incumbent mayor Councillor Solomon Mguni — affectionately known as King Solomon — a moniker that resonates through the social circles. The pantheon of Aldermen includes Rafamoyo, Ngwalo, David Ndlovu, Garden Mangena and the recently ordained Rodney Jele.

Luminaries such as Qhubani Moyo — a polymath straddling politics, academia and business — stand as emblematic emissaries. Notable figures like the late national hero Absalom Sikhosana, the dynamic Jabulani Sibanda who is also the Zanu-PF Bulawayo province stalwart, also draw their roots from this storied neighbourhood.

In a display of multifaceted talent, Buhle Ncube shines as a sports aficionado, notably in the realm of netball and football, alongside her role as a sports blogger — a testament to her engaging personality.

The resonant harmonies of Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi, a luminary who dons both the mantle of musician and politician, echo through the streets of Nkulumane. Likewise, the musical virtuosity of Jeys Marabini, crowned Mr Bulawayo of music, heralds from these same streets, a detail that belies his origins in Lobengula suburb.

The vibrant embroidery continues with Nodumo Nyathi, a revered Highlander’s life member, once at the helm of the South African Supporters chapter. His influence stretches to the transport industry, painting a portrait of a dynamic entrepreneur.

The indelible mark of Nkulumane extends to retired footballer Collin Nyambiya, whose name resonates across the premier soccer landscape, and who, with a last-minute goal, altered the course of history by denying a fifth consecutive title to the formidable Highlanders.

Two-time gold medallist in the Comrades marathon, and a two-time winner of the RMB Ultra-Trail Cape Town, Prodigal Khumalo is a Nkulumane boy. It’s one thing to tackle a Comrades or a trail marathon, but to take on the big giants of the sport, the ultra-trail races over distances of 100km, takes a special kind of mental and physical strength.

Last year he completed his first “hundred-miler”, a 166km race in the mountains, a challenge he set himself to complete when he turned 40.