Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE start of a New Year is usually associated with new beginnings in life and a rebirth of hopes and aspirations.
But barely two days after marking the onset of 2025, the sun has already set for Richard Chihoro – the enigmatic former Dynamos team manager.
Widely known in football circles by his moniker “Nyoka” (snake), Chihoro died on Thursday evening after a short illness.
He was 68-years-old.
The domestic football community was for the better part of yesterday struggling to process the shock and grief as the tragic news spread across the nation via multiple platforms.
“The demise of Mr Chihoro is difficult to accept and it will take long for the entire Dynamos FC family to accept,” said Dynamos in a statement yesterday.
“We pray that the Chihoro family will draw solace from the fact that Mdara Nyoka was a larger-than- life-character, who always dedicated his all to the blue and white cause.
“From his early days as a slippery winger which earned him the moniker Nyoka, Mr Chihoro ably represented the blue and white jersey.
“Thereafter, Nyoka dedicated his life to the Club firstly as an assistant coach before moving to the role of team manager.
“It is undoubtedly in this portfolio that Mr Chihoro thrived as he became the glue that held everything together at this great club.
“After diligently serving in this capacity, Mr Chihoro was then elevated to his current role to lead the club’s football philosophy from the first team, women’s team, development side and the junior teams.”
Chihoro was a powerful figure at the Harare giants, having joined Dynamos as a mere teenager before graduating to the senior side.
He also held various portfolios including being assistant coach to the late David Mandigora as well as assuming the roles of team manager.
Chihoro was Mandigora’s assistant when DeMbare won the league title in 2007. As a team manager, he was part the DeMbare side that went on a history-equalling PSL title four-peat between 2011 and 2014 with Callisto Pasuwa as coach.
By far the club’s longest serving official, Chihoro had been given a new role of director of football which he held until the time of his death.
The Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association organising secretary, Chris “Romario” Musekiwa, a staunch DeMbare fan, yesterday said Chihoro dedicated his life to the club and should be accorded a befitting send off.
“He had Dynamos at heart and dedicated to its cause. Nyoka was of a jovial and very humble character. His dedication and service to Dynamos as a passionate team manager for close to two decades will forever be remembered.
“It’s a huge loss not only to Dynamos but the entire football fraternity. Our deepest condolences to the Chihoro family, friends, relatives and the Dynamos family. May we find strength and comfort in the Lord during this difficult period,” said Musekiwa.
Fellow PSL clubs also sent their condolences.
“Indeed, it’s a sombre moment for the football community,” said former champions FC Platinum.
“His passion for football and his enduring commitment have left a profound legacy, warmly remembered by many. Rest in peace, Richard Chihoro.”
Yadah owner Walter Magaya said the football family was robbed of a dedicated man.
“The whole Yadah FC fraternity would like to convey its heartfelt condolences to the Chihoro family, Dynamos Football club and the football fraternity at large.
“The Zimbabwean football emblem is now poorer without the astute leadership qualities of Mr Chihoro. Mr Chihoro was an integral part of the Dynamos’ success story.
“His massive contribution was instrumental to the Dynamos cause. May his dearest soul rest in eternal peace,” said a statement from the Miracle Boys.
For most of his career as DeMbare team manager, Chihoro has always been quite an enigma. At times he has been singled out as the DeMbare “juju man” for his perceived beliefs in black magic.
But he seemed to enjoy the controversy which he usually laughed off in his trademark loud burst. There have been many tales about Chihoro and his juju antics, some of which were caught on camera leading to his suspension by the PSL in 2023.
Chihoro died at a local medical facility where he had been admitted a few hours earlier after complaining of painful legs and chest pains.
His son Collins said burial arrangements will be finalised today.
“The family elders are still deliberating on the matter but what is clear is that the body will be collected from Nyaradzo in the morning and then lie in state at the family home in Chitungwiza. Burial is likely to be on Sunday,” he said.
Mourners are gathered at house number 31589 Unit K, Chitungwiza.
