The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has joined the nation in mourning following the deaths of three senior Highlanders Football Club officials in a tragic road accident.
Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice chairman Fiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza lost their lives in the crash, leaving the club and the wider football community in deep shock. Their deaths come at a particularly emotional time as Highlanders marks its 100th anniversary.
In a statement released on Thursday, ZIFA described the loss as devastating for the Bulawayo-based club, the city and Zimbabwean football as a whole.
“The passing of these dedicated leaders is a huge loss for Highlanders Football Club, Bulawayo and the entire football fraternity,” the association said. “Their commitment, leadership and selfless service played a significant role in strengthening one of Zimbabwe’s most historic football clubs.”
ZIFA noted the painful contrast between the club’s centenary celebrations and the tragedy that has overshadowed the milestone.
“What should have been a year of celebration for Highlanders has instead become a period of profound sorrow,” the association said, acknowledging the emotional impact the accident has had on the Bosso family.
ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi said the football fraternity had lost three passionate administrators who dedicated themselves to the growth and success of the club.
“Zimbabwean football has been robbed of three committed servants whose passion and hard work helped shape one of the country’s greatest football institutions,” Magwizi said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Kenneth Mhlophe, Fiso Siziba and Nkani Khoza, as well as everyone connected to Highlanders Football Club.”
He added that the timing of the tragedy made the loss even more heartbreaking, as the club had been preparing to celebrate a century of football excellence.
“Instead of celebrating an extraordinary legacy, the football family has come together in grief. We pray for strength, comfort and peace for all those affected during this difficult time, and may the departed souls rest in eternal peace,” he said.
ZIFA also extended its sympathies to the bereaved families, Highlanders’ executive committee, players, coaching staff, members and supporters, assuring the club of its solidarity during one of the most difficult periods in its history.
The association said the contributions of Mhlophe, Siziba and Khoza would remain an enduring part of Highlanders’ history and Zimbabwean football, with their dedication and service remembered for generations to come.
