Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
TSHIBILIKA music veteran Themba “Boyoyo” Mathe has joined the nation in mourning three Highlanders Football Club executive committee members and a female supporter who died in a tragic road accident last week, describing the loss as a devastating blow to both the club and the city of Bulawayo.
Former Highlanders vice-chairman Fiso Siziba and board member responsible for finance Nkani Khoza, were laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery on Monday, while former club chairman Kenneth Mhlophe and devoted Highlanders supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda will be buried on Tuesday.
A lifelong Bosso supporter, Boyoyo said the tragedy had struck close to home, adding that his own stage name carries a special connection to the club through the late Highlanders legend and music producer Tymon Mabaleka, whose nickname “Boyoyo” inspired his own.
Reflecting on the loss, the musician said Highlanders had shaped his upbringing and even influenced his musical journey.
“I grew up under the hands of Highlanders. Even when I started listening to and enjoying our tshova tshova music, Highlanders was one of the teams you could sit down and compose a song about. I loved the song composed by my elder Ndux Malax, Amahlolanyama, about Highlanders.
“It’s a sad loss for all the citizens of Zimbabwe and a huge blow to the City of Kings and Queens. I, Themba Boyoyo Mathe, stand with the families, Highlanders Football Club and all Zimbabweans during this painful moment. Ngithi duduzekani bantu bakithi. Inkosi mayiyandise isandla sokududuza kunhliziyo ezidabukileyo.”
Boyoyo’s tribute adds to the growing wave of condolences from across Zimbabwe’s arts and sports communities, reflecting the profound impact the four had on Highlanders Football Club and the nation at large.
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