Government officials, civic leaders, and the broader sports community have united in mourning following the tragic deaths of three senior Highlanders FC executives—chairman retired colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Sifiso “Fiso” Siziba, and finance executive Nkani Khoza—in a road accident along the Harare–Bulawayo Highway on Thursday night, while returning from Kariba.
Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Judith Ncube, speaking on behalf of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, announced that the deceased leaders will receive state-assisted burials.
Demonstrating high-level government support, Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture permanent secretary Nicholas Moyo visited the funeral wake of Mhlophe, to extend official condolences to the bereaved family.
Tributes have flooded in from across the country during what marks a historic centenary year for Zimbabwe’s oldest football club. John Landa Nkomo Memorial Trust chairman Jabulani Nkomo expressed deep sorrow, emphasising that replacing the three dedicated leaders would be a monumental task.
The Trust, which worked closely with the trio over the past year to manage a US$1 million donation from philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo, pledged to honour their legacy by ensuring those initiatives continue responsibly.
Nkomo also issued an urgent plea for increased road safety on national highways.
The City of Bulawayo, led by mayor David Coltart, councillors, and town clerk Christopher Dube, issued a joint statement describing the accident as a devastating loss for the entire city, nation, and global football community.
Local authorities praised Mhlophe, Siziba, and Khoza for their steadfast commitment and selfless service, noting that all three lost their lives while actively serving the club they loved.
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