Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere
WHILE footballers chase trophies and contracts, Highlanders’ bus driver Blain “Mboma” Nkoma has quietly become a club legend in his own right. Since 2008, Mboma has been behind the steering wheel of Bosso’s team buses, ferrying players from stadium to stadium, never once driving for another club.
“This has been a great institution for me. Since 2008, I have never driven another team’s bus,” Mboma said, beaming as he stood beside Bosso’s brand-new team bus, delivered this week by Sir Wicknell Chivayo. The Bulawayo giants are celebrating 100 years of existence, and Mboma says he feels just as proud.
“I’m greatly looking forward to transporting this great team for both away and home matches. Bosso is our club, and I will always remain loyal. I have shared the road with Bekithemba Ndlovu, Siza Khoza, Gilbert Banda, Johannes Ngodzo, Anzilom Ndlovu, and more recently Prince Ndlovu and Mvelo Khoza,” he said.
Mboma recalls the laughter, chatter, and occasional tension on long journeys. “I’ve had light moments with every player and coach. I will always cherish those memories. This is a special year for Bosso, and I am further committed to the club’s cause. Highlanders will always remain my pride and my family’s pride.”
But being the man behind the wheel is no easy job. Mboma is quick to remind anyone that transport work is demanding, often under harsh conditions that test both patience and skill.
“Ensuring mobility when conditions are not always conducive requires diligence, constant effort and skills. Most people don’t see what we go through. The transport system is a network of linked services, all of which must work together to keep the city moving,” he explained.
Mboma also emphasised the importance of reliable public services. “Transport services, like any other essential service, must be dependable. They safeguard citizens’ rights and underpin the economy. Failures not only inconvenience the public, but they increase the risk of accidents and major disruptions,” he said.
As Highlanders marks a century, Mboma remains a steadfast figure behind the scenes, driving players, dreams, and pride across Bulawayo and beyond. For him, loyalty is not a word; it’s a lifetime commitment on the road.
“Since 2008, Bosso has been my family. I will never let this club down,” he said.
