The City of Bulawayo welcomed ultra-marathon runner Miss Nobukhosi Nobuhle Tshuma, who became the first black Zimbabwean to achieve a podium finish in the 2026 Comrades Marathon in South Africa.

Tshuma was welcomed by His Worship Senator David Coltart, the Mayor, and Human Capital Director Mr Makhosi Tshalebwa, who was standing in for the Town Clerk, Mr Christopher Dube.

Also present was the Deputy Director of Human Resources, Mrs S Mlilo in the Office of the President and Cabinet Bulawayo Metropolitan Province who represented the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Judith Ncube.

Miss Tshuma received a shower of praises from the City and Provincial leadership for putting Bulawayo and Zimbabwe on the map.

Senator Coltart handed a commemorative citation to Tshuma in honour of her sterling performance as an athlete, highlighting that Bulawayo can become the country’s hub for sporting excellence as it has facilities for various sporting disciplines. He added that sport can be an economic enabler in Bulawayo.

Minister Ncube also praised Miss Tshuma, saying she has become a symbol of hope that when one commits themselves, they can achieve greatness.

Miss Tshuma narrated how she persevered through hardships to secure a podium finish while carrying the nation’s pride.
It took her 5 hours, 53 minutes and 36 seconds to complete the 86km Comrades Marathon race.

The Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Legacy Project and various partners facilitated her flight from South Africa to Bulawayo.
City of Bulawayo Councillors and Heads of Council Departments were also part of the delegation that received Miss Tshuma as well as various athletic associations and Bulawayo running clubs