Doyen of black rugby laid to rest

PHIRI CAWE

Emotions ran high as Mbulelo Norman Mbiko’s family and friends made their way to the Nyanga rugby and cricket field on May Saturday 3, to say their final farewells to the rugby legend.

The hearse was escorted by police and followed by a convoy. Mourners filled the stadium to capacity with people standing and extra chairs brought in. Various media houses and camera crews were there to cover the event.

The legendary rugby trainer, manager and former player lived in the Nyanga East where he was respected for his contribution in community development.

Speaking at the funeral, his friends said he captained an Eastern Cape Invitation XV against Newport in Wales in 1979. His experience and insight into the evolving nature of the country’s rugby made him an invaluable asset during the transitional period. They said his life was a powerful narrative of leadership and commitment to equality in sport.

His friend Sakhiwo Zamisa described Mr Mbiko as the best rugby player of his time. He said he transformed rugby in Gqeberha. “In Korsten, one thing that inspired us was rugby. We once played against a team from New Brighton. (Mr Mbiko) and Wallace Xhotyeni and others played their best rugby. I met him again after he retired. He was my childhood hero and it was a great thing to meet him again. He was an enigma.” 

Mr Zamisa said one thing he took from him is that he loved his family. “He was not perfect but was a decent human being. I will always be indebted to him,” said Mr Zamisa.

His words were echoed by another friend and a rugby referee, Louis Mzomba, who described Mr Mbiko as a community builder. He said he was not only a rugby player but was also involved in politics and community projects. “He left an indelible mark in my life and many others. He fought crime and drugs with his Dlulisa ibhola project. He produced the likes of Sikhumbuzo Notshe and many others. He fought crime in the streets of Nyanga East. He transformed many good soccer players to be rugby players. He loved sport and his community,” he said.

Everybody agreed that Mr Mbiko shared his passion for life and sport through conducting coaching clinics even after he retired. His legacy within SA rugby is profound. He not only broke barriers as an athlete and a captain but also as a mentor and a coach, shaping the future of the sport in a nation striving for inclusivity and representation. 

Mr Mbiko was buried at Maitland Cemetery.