The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has hailed President Emmerson Mnangagwa's move to accord the late Highlanders Football Club executive members and a supporter a state assisted funeral describing it as befitting.
Highlanders FC chairperson Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, treasurer Nkani Khoza, deputy chairperson Sifiso Siziba and a supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda died last week in a road accident, 50km before Bulawayo , while coming from an away soccer league match against ZPC Kariba.
Addressing mourners during a funeral parade at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo this Monday, ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi said the deceased played their roles in local football hence their recognition by the state.
"Before I say anything further, allow me to express our heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, and to the Government of Zimbabwe for the compassion and support shown during this difficult time," Magwizi said.
"The decision to accord Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, Nkani Khoza, Sifiso Siziba and Mbalenhle Sibanda State-Assisted Funerals is a fitting recognition of lives devoted to service."It is a reminder that service to football is service to community, and service to community is service to the nation."
The funeral parade attracted scores of football enthusiasts from across the nation among them football coaches, administrators, supporters and government officials among others.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Football has an extraordinary power. It has the power to inspire.
It has the power to unite," Magwizi added.
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"And, as we have witnessed over the past few days, it has the power to comfort.
This tragedy has reminded us that while clubs may compete fiercely on the field, there are moments when the badge on the jersey no longer matters."Magwizi added:"
Over the past few days, we have witnessed supporters from clubs around the country putting rivalries aside.
"We have seen football administrators, former players, current players, sponsors, government officials and ordinary Zimbabweans united by one purpose – to stand with
Highlanders in its darkest hour.
That is the true spirit of football.
That is the Zimbabwe we all believe in."
The ZIFA boss described the late Mhlophe as a man of discipline, honour and unwavering commitment.
"Many of our national team's successes were made possible by dedicated individuals who worked quietly behind the scenes, and Colonel Mhlophe was one of them. Zimbabwean football salutes his remarkable contribution," Magwizi said.
"We also remember Sifiso Siziba.
He was not only Highlanders Vice Chairman, but served as Security Officer for the Warriors, fulfilling a responsibility that required dedication, professionalism and complete trust. His work was rarely seen by the public, but those who travelled with our national team knew the important role he played. Zimbabwean football is grateful for his faithful service.
"Today, we also honour Nkani Khoza, Highlanders Football Club's Executive Member responsible for Finance. His work demanded integrity, accountability and sound leadership. He understood that behind every successful football institution are individuals willing to work tirelessly, often without recognition, to ensure that the club continues to grow. He gave his knowledge, his experience and his time to the institution he loved."
Magwizi also paid tribute to the late Sibanda describing her as a devoted Highlanders Life Member and also a passionate supporter of the national team, The Warriors.
"Supporters are the heartbeat of our game. Without them, there is no atmosphere. Without them, there is no inspiration. Mbalenhle represented the thousands of Zimbabweans whose love for football asks for nothing in return except the opportunity to support their club and their country," said Magwizi.
