In Loving Memory Of Eddie 'Mboma' Nyatanga
Eddie Charles “Mboma” Nyatanga was born on the 19th of October, 1962, to the late Stella and James Nyatanga. He was the second of four children, and grew up surrounded by the warmth of his siblings—Andrew, Masimba, and Jacqueline. Eddie was brought into the world at Mabvuku Clinic while the family was living in Highfields, a place that shaped much of his early life. From a young age, Eddie demonstrated remarkable determination and intelligence. He began his secondary education at the prestigious Kutama College, where he enrolled for Form 1, intent on completing his studies there. However, in 1978, driven by an unshakable commitment to fight for his country’s liberation, Eddie left school while still in Form 3. He then journeyed to Zambia to join the armed struggle for Zimbabwe’s independence. It was in these trying circumstances that he met his lifelong friend, Stephen Nyoka. The bond they created in the hardship of the Zambian camps remained unbreakable.Stephen Nyoka often recalls Eddie’s ability to adapt, his resilience, and the strength of his character that set him apart, even in the most difficult conditions. At such a tender age, it was clear that he knew the man he was destined to become and he worked hard until he made it his reality. After six months, Eddie was transferred to a camp known as J.Z., located roughly 60 kilometers west of Lusaka. Soon afterward, he moved to Nigeria for university,where he pursued and earned a degree in Business Administration—alongside the late Hon. JB Matiza, who would go on to serve as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Transport. Even as a young man, Eddie held great responsibility, managing logistics in the liberation camps with sharp focus and discipline. Upon returning from Nigeria, Eddie was appointed as a Director in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. This was an appointment that marked the official beginning of his professional journey and set him firmly on the path to success. In 1989, Eddie and Nyoka co-founded a business in the tourism and transport sector, Lanark Car Hire,laying the foundation for a legacy of entrepreneurship. But Eddie’s passion extended beyond business—he was a true patriot and football fan. It’s no coincidence that he was passionate about soccer because it was the perfect arena for him to use that voice and energy without holding back.He played an important role as a founding member of the Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association and went on to serve as its president, rallying the spirit of soccer with unwavering enthusiasm. It was here that the nickname “Mboma” was coined and it’s really funny that his nickname stuck to the point that most people don’t even know his real name. This gives a clear sense of the powerful impact his character had on the people around him. He was astute and driven, with a mind wired for strategy and an unshakable instinct for success. A true go-getter, Eddie pursued his goals with relentless energy and purpose. I vividly remember one particular day when he had a meeting with individuals seeking his legal counsel. When they mentioned they could only discuss further with him the following day around 10 a.m., Eddie immediately responded with his signature intensity: “Ten?! At 6 a.m. a million dollars could be hitting my account—why should I delay my day?” That was classic Eddie—always thinking ahead, never one to waste a moment when opportunity was knocking, especially when the opportunity meant more money for him. Eddie was a man of the world—an adventurer at heart. He loved to travel and was a joyful holidaymaker, with memories of both local and international journeys that his family will treasure forever. Everybody knew it was hard to ever get ahold of him because if he’s not in China he’s in Mutare, if he’s not in South Africa, he’s in Marondera. Every second of free time was a token to a new adventure. Another thing he really loved was taking photographs. I know if you’ve ever been with him you’d be so frustrated when he continues saying “huyai titore mapicture, tete mira makadai, iwewe ita kakutarisa kuside, sekererai kani! “ But now I know we can all appreciate these moments and keep them as memories we will have forever. Eddie was a man whose love for family knew no bounds. He was a father to many—both by blood and by heart—and he cherished each of his children deeply. He loved without question and took care of his family without ever asking for anything in return.Family was everything to him, and he went out of his way to nurture bonds that spanned generations and distances. He had a rare gift for bringing people together. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if many of you met because of him. That’s just who Eddie was—a unifier, a connector, the heartbeat of every gathering. And it’s in that same spirit of unity that we find ourselves here today, drawn together by the legacy of a man who made family his life’s mission. Yet, for all his drive and ambition, Eddie was equally known for his warmth, generosity and charm. As much as he was one that loved his money, he was always generous with giving it away. If there’s one thing we will all remember, it’s his unmatched sense of humor. He had the rare and beautiful gift of lighting up even the dullest room with his presence. His booming voice and hearty laugh made it impossible not to feel uplifted when he was around. Eddie did not just enter a room- he took it over- not with arrogance, but with a certain charm that made everybody feel like they belonged. To know Eddie was to love him. He was a brother, a father, a grandfather,a friend, a comrade, and a mentor. His impact on our lives is immeasurable, and the void left by his passing is deeply felt. I think I speak for everyone here when I say we were lucky to know Eddie and blessed to walk a part of our journey with him. He will be greatly missed by everyone’s heart he touched. Eddie, you will be missed in ways words can barely express. But your legacy, your laughter, and your love will remain with us always. He is survived by his business partner, best friend, lover and spouse, Angelina Nyatanga and his beautiful children. Rest in power.