JOMO’S DEATH BLAMED ON HEART ATTACK

MANZINI –  “A people’s person.”

These were the words that best captured the essence of the late Dumisani ‘Jomo’ Sibiya, the legendary Manzini Wanderers footballer, during his emotional memorial service at Ngwane Park Free Evangelical Church. The cause of his untimely passing was revealed by his family during the service Jomo had succumbed to a sudden heart attack, a shock that left all who knew him in disbelief.

Hundreds of mourners, including family, friends and fellow football legends, gathered to pay tribute to a man who touched the lives of many, not only as a football icon but as a beloved father, husband, brother and uncle. His infectious laughter and unshakable spirit were a source of joy to all who crossed his path.

Among the mourners were Manzini Wanderers’ own football greats, who walked the same path as Jomo in the world of football. The service was a blend of sorrow and celebration of life, filled with heartfelt tears and moments of warmth, accompanied by the soulful renditions of the worship team. Stories were shared, each one painting a picture of a man whose kindness and passion transcended the game of football.

In a deeply moving tribute, Khulile Sibiya, Jomo’s eldest child, spoke on behalf of the deceased’s children. “Our father’s passing came far too soon, we are shattered by the loss, for he was not just a father to us, but a guide, mentor and friend. He did everything in his power to give us the life we wanted. We looked up to him in every way, and now, we will carry his love and lessons in our hearts forever,” she said.

Gugu and Mzwandile Sibiya, Jomo’s siblings, also shared their grief, lamenting the pain of his sudden departure.“It’s painful that he is gone. What hurts more is that we never had the chance to spend more time with him before he left. He was a man with a good heart, always willing to correct us when we strayed, but he never taught us how to live without him.”

Unity

Meanwhile, members of the Wanderers family also shared their tributes. Bheki Gamedze and Doctor Simelane, two of Jomo’s close friends and football teammates, described him as a figure of unity and peace. “We have lost a giant. He was the glue that held us together, always ready to bring harmony when things got tense. His passion for football was unwavering, and his laughter was a constant in our lives. He was a true Wanderer at heart,” Simelane said.

Gamedze recalled the challenges of initially bringing Jomo into the Wanderers fold due to financial struggles. “But we never gave up though we had challenges in signing him in the team. Eventually, we managed to bring him in, and he became an integral part of the team. His contributions to the club were immeasurable,” Gamedze said.

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