Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
HAIL The Yellowman!
IN a heart-warming display of friendship and loyalty, former Zimbabwean football star Esrom Nyandoro has taken it upon himself to ensure the children of his late friend, Richard “Dabuka Express” Choruma, receive the education they deserve.
The two friends grew up together in Mzilikazi, Bulawayo, sharing a passion for football that would shape their lives.
Tragedy struck on December 29, 2020, when Choruma passed away at the age of 42, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication and sacrifice for the beautiful game.
Known by the moniker “Yellowman”, Nyandoro, who had previously played for AmaZulu in Zimbabwe and Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa, was deeply affected by his friend’s passing on.
However, Nyandoro’s love and commitment to his friend did not end with Choruma’s passing.
In a powerful gesture, after re-launching his Esrom Nyandoro Foundation on December 13, in South Africa, at a colourful gala dinner yesterday, when his late friend was celebrating his fifth anniversary in heaven, Nyandoro took to his Facebook wall to make a personal commitment to cover the educational costs of the late Choruma’s children.
“Dear Richard Choruma, firstly I miss you my friend,” Nyandoro wrote. “Secondly, I know you would have been the biggest supporter of the Foundation, so having said this, does it even make sense that I have launched an education fund and your children are not beneficiaries? Yet you served our city and our country with the most auspicious sport in the world.”
Nyandoro’s foundation is more than just a charitable initiative, it’s a testament of his commitment to giving back to the community.
To raise funds for the foundation, Nyandoro has made personal sacrifices, selling treasured memorabilia from his playing career, including signed and framed jerseys.
One jersey, in particular, has garnered significant attention – the shirt Nyandoro wore when he scored a famous goal that is etched in African football history. The jersey has been reportedly valued at R200 000, with a present offer of R120 000 and the full amount will go towards covering January 2026 school fees for various children.
The launch of the Esrom Nyandoro Foundation brought together football stakeholders, business leaders and community partners, highlighting the powerful role sport can play in social development.
Nyandoro’s selfless act has inspired many, demonstrating the impact that sport can have on our lives and the importance of giving back to the community.
Nyandoro, who has served Mamelodi Sundowns for more than two decades as a player, scout and now coach, has previously stressed that the foundation is focused on sustainable impact.
With education at its core and football as its heartbeat, the Esrom Nyandoro Foundation continues to use football not just to create players but to change lives.
As Nyandoro continues to make a difference in the lives of children, his friend’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.
“Rest well, my friend,” Nyandoro said, his words, a testament to the enduring bond between two friends who shared a love for football and a commitment to each other. — @FungaiMuderere
