Story by Mthokozisi Dube
GOVERNMENT has granted State-assisted funerals to four people who died in the Mbembesi road traffic accident along the Harare-Bulawayo Highway, with the announcement made during visits to the bereaved families in Bulawayo following the tragic crash that claimed the lives of three Highlanders Football Club executives and a devoted club supporter.
Speaking during a visit to the bereaved families, the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Judith Ncube, said Government stands with the affected families during this difficult period.
“It is a difficult time when an organisation loses its entire leadership. We were sent by His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, to convey the message that government is with you during this difficult period. The President has declared that the deceased will be accorded State-assisted funerals,” she said.
The Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, together with stakeholders including officials from the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), and Premier Soccer League clubs, also visited the bereaved families to offer their condolences.
“As government, we are devastated. We have more questions than answers, and even more so for the families. It is difficult to comprehend such a tragic loss. This is a dark cloud that has engulfed not only the families but the entire nation,” said the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Nicholas Moyo.
ZIFA Southern Region Chairperson Chris Mtungwazi said the football fraternity has been encouraged by the unity shown by stakeholders during this difficult time.
“It is a painful moment for the region, but it is also a time when we have seen all stakeholders coming together to mourn the departed,” he said.
Highlanders board member Elkanah Dube expressed gratitude to government for the honour and outlined plans for the burial arrangements.
“We are grateful for the support and would like to thank the President for this honour. We are consulting with the families and all stakeholders regarding a memorial service at Barbourfields Stadium, which is likely to be held on Monday or Tuesday,” he said.
Highlanders chairman Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Fiso Siziba, treasurer Nkani Khoza and devoted supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda died in the horrific accident approximately 64 kilometres outside Bulawayo along the Harare-Bulawayo Highway.
