The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), the mother body of football in the country, has expressed profound grief following the tragic deaths of three Highlanders Football Club executive committee members in a road traffic accident.
The deceased are Highlanders FC Chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, Vice Chairman Fiso Siziba, and Treasurer Nkani Khoza.
According to reports, the crash occurred along the Gweru-Bulawayo Highway near Lochard, about 60 kilometres from Bulawayo. The club leaders were travelling in a Ford Raptor when the vehicle reportedly struck a stray cow on the road before veering into the path of an oncoming bus in a head-on collision. The trio were returning to Bulawayo from Kariba, where Highlanders had played an away match against ZPC Kariba.
In a statement, ZIFA said the loss was “immeasurable” for Highlanders Football Club, the city of Bulawayo, and the entire Zimbabwean football family. “Their unwavering commitment, selfless service and leadership made an enduring contribution to one of the country’s most iconic football institutions,” ZIFA said.
The tragedy comes during a particularly painful time for the Bulawayo giants, as Highlanders commemorates its centenary year a landmark occasion meant to celebrate 100 years of excellence, resilience and pride.
ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi led the football fraternity in mourning, describing the three as devoted servants of the game.
“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.
“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. We pray that God grants comfort, strength and peace to every grieving heart, and may the souls of our departed brothers rest in eternal peace.
On behalf of ZIFA’s Executive Committee, management, staff and the entire football fraternity, the association extended “deepest and most heartfelt condolences” to the families of the deceased, the Highlanders executive committee, players, technical team, members, supporters and all affected by the loss.
“At this moment of profound sorrow, ZIFA stands shoulder to shoulder with Highlanders Football Club and the wider football community. We share in your grief and remain united in honouring the lives, service and legacy of these distinguished football administrators,” the statement read.
ZIFA concluded: “May their souls rest in eternal peace.”
