BULAWAYO, Jul. 24 (NewsDay Live) – The Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) has joined the nation in mourning the deaths of Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Fiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza, who were killed in a road traffic accident along the Harare-Bulawayo Road on Thursday evening.
In a statement, Zifa described the tragedy as an immeasurable loss to Highlanders Football Club, the city of Bulawayo and the wider Zimbabwean football fraternity.
“This is an immeasurable loss for Highlanders Football Club, the city of Bulawayo and the Zimbabwean football family. Their unwavering commitment, selfless service and leadership made an enduring contribution to one of the country’s most iconic football institutions,” the association said.
Zifa noted that the tragedy had struck at a particularly painful moment as Highlanders mark their centenary celebrations.
Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi said Zimbabwean football had lost three dedicated administrators whose service helped shape the club’s legacy.
“Today, Zimbabwean football has lost three devoted servants whose passion and commitment helped shape one of our nation’s greatest football institutions. We are devastated by this heartbreaking tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Kenneth Mhlophe, Fiso Siziba and Nkani Khoza, as well as the entire Highlanders family,” Magwizi said.
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“It is especially painful that this loss comes during Highlanders’ centenary year, a time that should have been filled with celebration and reflection on a remarkable legacy. Instead, the football family is united in mourning.”
Zifa extended its condolences to the families of the deceased, the Highlanders executive committee, players, technical team, members and supporters.
The deaths of Mhlophe, Siziba and Khoza have sent shockwaves through Zimbabwean football, with clubs, administrators and supporters continuing to pay tribute to the three executives.