Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
Bulawayo will bid a final farewell to one of its most beloved football sons, Brian “BB” Banda, who will be laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery on Thursday.
Several notable Zimbabwean football legends are buried at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo. These include Adam Ndlovu, Willard Mashinkila Khumalo, Tymon Mabaleka, Ernest “Maphepha” Sibanda, Rahman Gumbo and Barry Daka.
To be buried at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo, one must have made an outstanding contribution to the community in various fields like civic matters, education, religion, business, sports, charity, journalism, or through significant donations.
The 29-year-old, Banda, a former Highlanders and national team midfielder died in a tragic car accident at the weekend on the Zvishavane-Bulawayo Road. Banda was a passenger in a Toyota Corolla Bubble, which veered off the road near the Fred Mine turn-off after the driver attempted to overtake at a blind spot and encountered on-coming traffic.
The driver swerved to avoid a collision, but the vehicle overturned, killing Banda and another passenger on the spot.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Khawulani Fox Dube confirmed the burial arrangements.
“There will be a service at the Amphitheatre on Thursday morning which should start at around 8am before we lay him to rest at Lady Stanley,” said Dube.
Banda’s untimely passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many, both within and beyond the football community.
Known for his discipline, skill, and leadership on the pitch, Banda rose to national prominence as a midfielder who brought flair and commitment to every match he played. His performances earned him caps with the Zimbabwe national team and admiration from fans across the country.
Born and raised in Entumbane, Banda was the only boy among four siblings.
He leaves behind three children, two daughters, Bandile Primrose Banda and Langelihle Banda, and a two-week-old son affectionately called Juns, whom Banda had planned to name once he saw him.
The football fraternity remains in shock, with many remembering Banda not just for his footballing brilliance but also for his humility and dedication to the sport.
At the time of his death, he was recovering from injury and had watched his former team FC Platinum play to a 1-1 draw with defending champions Simba Bhora at Mandava Stadium on the previous day.
