Bocco joined Simba in 2017 from Azam FC and immediately established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch.
Although still active in competitive football, Mkude will be honored for his loyalty and outstanding service to Simba
Dar es Salaam. Simba SC has confirmed that its former captain, John Bocco ‘Adebayor’, has officially retired from competitive football and will receive a grand farewell during the climax of Simba Day on September 10, 2025.
The announcement was made by the club’s Media and Communications Manager, Ahmed Ally, who explained that the ceremony will serve as a tribute to Bocco’s immense contribution to the Msimbazi giants.
“John Bocco has decided to retire from professional football. On Simba Day, we will honor him with the respect and recognition he deserves for his service to the club,” Ahmed said. Bocco joined Simba in 2017 from Azam FC and immediately established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch.
As captain, he guided the Reds to four Tanzania Mainland Premier League titles and played an integral role in their historic CAF Champions League campaigns, where Simba announced themselves as a rising continental force.
His consistency, professionalism, and eye for crucial goals earned him a reputation as one of the most dependable strikers of his generation.
Beyond the numbers, Bocco was admired for his discipline and leadership qualities, which made him a role model for young players and a respected figure among fans. In addition to celebrating Bocco, Simba Day will also pay tribute to another long-serving club icon, Jonas Gerrard Mkude.
Although still active in competitive football, Mkude will be honored for his loyalty and outstanding service to Simba.
“This year, we are celebrating two legends who dedicated their careers to Simba,” Ahmed explained. “The first is our former captain John Bocco, who has confirmed his participation and is delighted with this recognition.
The second is Jonas Mkude, who joined us as a teenager, rose through the youth ranks, and spent 15 years with the senior team. He remains one of our most beloved players.”
Mkude, widely regarded as one of Tanzania’s finest midfielders, was the heartbeat of Simba’s engine room for over a decade. Known for his composure under pressure, precise passing, and tactical awareness, he was instrumental in the club’s dominance of domestic football and earned the admiration of teammates and rivals alike.
Meanwhile, Ahmed provided an update on Simba’s ongoing preseason program. The squad, currently training abroad, is set to return to Dar es Salaam on August 28.
Before their homecoming, they will play two international friendlies: against Egyptian Premier League side Wadi Degla on August 26, followed by Liberian champions Fassell FC on August 27.Day celebrations,” Ahmed con cluded.
