Story Mthokozisi Dube
THE Zimbabwean football fraternity set aside long-standing rivalries to honour four members of the Highlanders family who died in last Thursday’s tragic road traffic accident at Mbembesi, with Vice-Chairperson Fiso Siziba and Treasurer Nkani Khoza laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo.
Football administrators, players, supporters and government officials gathered to pay their final respects to Highlanders Chairperson Colonel (Rtd) Kenneth Mhlophe, Vice-Chairperson Fiso Siziba, Treasurer Nkani Khoza and devoted supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda, describing their deaths as a devastating loss to both the club and Zimbabwean football.
“It is a sad day. I have known the PSL vice-chairman for a long time and learnt a lot from them. As you know, Dynamos, Highlanders and CAPS United are always spoken about together. When Highlanders cough, we sneeze,” a football leader said.
Another football leader said: “Football has lost. These guys were the engine behind the Highlanders brand.”
A representative from CAPS United said football had demonstrated its unifying spirit.
“We came here to pay our respects and, as CAPS United, football has taught us one thing—to unite for a common cause.”
Another football leader added: “These guys were instrumental in steering Highlanders. It’s a major setback, but we hope those who take over will continue the wonderful work they started.”
Highlanders Board Chairperson Luke Mkandla described the tragedy as particularly painful as the club prepares to celebrate its centenary.
“I speak representing the patron of Highlanders, the board, executive members and supporters. We express our sincere condolences to the families of the departed. The club has lost loyal servants. They died together, returning from a football match, still discussing the next fixture and how to make the club even greater.”
ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi said the tragedy had revealed the unity that exists within Zimbabwean football.
“This tragedy has reminded us that while clubs may compete fiercely on the field of play, there are moments when the badge on the jersey no longer matters. Over the past few days, we have witnessed supporters from clubs across the country putting aside their rivalries. Administrators, former players, current players, sponsors, government officials and ordinary Zimbabweans have united for 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.”
Government granted the four a State-assisted funeral in recognition of their contribution.
Bulawayo Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Judith Ncube said the tragedy had overshadowed preparations for Highlanders’ centenary celebrations.
“It is a sad moment, a sad month and a sad year. As you are aware, we are preparing for the centenary celebrations. Nonetheless, we must celebrate their contribution to the game. We are grateful that people came in their numbers to bid them farewell after this tragic loss.”
Colonel (Rtd) Kenneth Mhlophe, who was accorded Liberation Hero status, will be buried at Lady Stanley Cemetery on Tuesday, while devoted supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda will be laid to rest in Filabusi the same day.
