January 5, 2025 | The city of Bulawayo and the wider football community are mourning the death of social football icon Madodana “Horsepower” Tshabangu, who passed away in Johannesburg, South Africa, on December 30, 2024. Tshabangu, aged 67, was a beloved figure known for his immense contributions to social soccer, his larger-than-life personality, and his enduring legacy as a community organizer.
Tshabangu’s funeral service is set to take place this morning at Lady Stanley Cemetery following an early service at Desert Ground in Njube. Mourners, including family, friends, and soccer enthusiasts, gathered at his Njube home yesterday to pay their final respects.
A Life Well Lived
Madodana Tshabangu, affectionately known as “Horsepower,” was celebrated for his love of football and his ability to bring communities together through the sport. Originally from Lower Gweru in the Midlands Province, Tshabangu made a name for himself as a defender for teams such as Gweru United and Contex. He later became a respected social soccer organizer and referee, earning the admiration of many.
Tshabangu is survived by his wife, Angeline, and four children—Maradona, Platini, Ronaldo, and Serena—whose names reflect his lifelong passion for the beautiful game. His family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from friends, well-wishers, and companies like Mzansi Express and Kingdom Blue, which facilitated his journey back home.
“Ubaba is now here to rest, and as per his wishes, we have done everything he asked of us. We will not let his legacy down,” said his son Maradona.
A Pillar of the Community
Tshabangu’s impact extended beyond football. Neighbors and community leaders described him as a unifying figure. Sipho Mhlanga, a resident association leader, said, “He was known for organizing football events and was like a son to us as a community. His loss leaves a void that will be hard to fill.”
Goodson Gama, a family friend,
highlighted Tshabangu’s close ties with local journalists and sportswriters, adding that he was not only a source of stories but also a vibrant part o
