Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
HIGHLANDERS yesterday proudly joined the Bulawayo Day celebrations, underlining the deep and enduring bond between the country’s second-largest city and its most iconic football institution.
As Bulawayo marked 132 years of existence, Bosso took part in the festivities with an interactive stand outside City Hall, where football lovers, residents and visitors had an opportunity to engage with the club’s rich history as it celebrates its centenary year.
The club’s presence at the commemorations was more than a symbolic gesture. It was a celebration of a relationship that has evolved over a century, with the club becoming an inseparable part of Bulawayo’s cultural identity and way of life.
From historic achievements on the pitch to the stories and traditions that have shaped generations of supporters, the club used the occasion to connect fans with its remarkable journey since its formation in 1926.
One of the highlights of the day was a visit by Highlanders leadership to the club’s first offices in Makokoba as part of the Highlanders Heritage Trail.
The visit served as a poignant reminder of the club’s humble beginnings and an affirmation of how the city has contributed to the growth of one of the country’s most celebrated sporting institutions.
The historic tour brought together two significant milestones, 100 years of Highlanders and 132 years of Bulawayo, highlighting a shared history that continues to inspire pride among residents.
For many, Highlanders are more than just a football club. Bosso represent the spirit, resilience and character of Bulawayo, values that have been passed on from one generation of supporters to the next.
Highlanders board member Elkanah Dube said the club’s participation in Bulawayo Day celebrations was a natural reflection of the strong ties that exist between the city and the football institution.
“We are celebrating Bulawayo City and the city is the backbone of Highlanders. This team was formed in Makokoba, Bulawayo, and was the brainchild of King Lobengula’s grandchildren.
“We celebrate this day because wherever Highlanders go to play, they represent Bulawayo and this is a big occasion,” said Dube.
“We celebrate this day together with Bulawayo City in a partnership we believe will last forever as we also celebrate our hundred years.”
Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe echoed similar sentiments, describing Bulawayo as the foundation upon which the club’s success and identity have been built.
“Highlanders and Bulawayo share a special bond that has stood the test of time. As we celebrate 100 years of this great institution, we recognise that our story cannot be told without acknowledging the city that nurtured and supported us through every generation. We are proud to be part of Bulawayo’s heritage and equally proud to join residents in celebrating the city’s 132nd anniversary,” said Mhlophe.
As Highlanders continue their centenary celebrations throughout the year, their participation in Bulawayo Day served as a reminder that the club’s story is deeply intertwined with that of the city itself.
Together, Bulawayo and Bosso continue to celebrate a shared legacy built on pride, culture, community and an unwavering sense of belonging.
