Mloyi, Fuzwayo join Highlanders board

DOUGLAS “British” Mloyi, the former Highlanders defender whose legacy is firmly entrenched in the club’s rich history, has been appointed as a board member. He was sworn in on Sunday during the club’s annual general meeting held in Bulawayo.

His appointment reflects the club’s ongoing commitment to leadership renewal and regular rotation of office bearers, ensuring fresh perspectives continue to influence the team’s future. Mloyi joins alongside life member and lawyer of 30 years, Nkululeko Fuzwayo, who operates a law firm in Francistown, Botswana. Since Justice Mathonsi’s departure two years ago, the club has lacked a legal expert within its leadership structure.

In accordance with Article 13.3 of the Highlanders constitution, the two leadership arms of the club — the board and the executive — identified candidates who were then presented to members for confirmation at the annual general meeting.

Mloyi expressed his readiness to serve in his new role:

“I’m deeply honoured and humbled by the trust the club members have placed in me. Highlanders is a part of who I am, and I’ve always believed in the strength of this club and its people. This new role gives me a chance to give back to the club that shaped my career and my life. I’m excited for what lies ahead, and I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members to continue the tradition of excellence at Highlanders. Bosso has been a family to me and now, it’s my turn to help guide it to even greater heights.”

Mloyi’s journey with Highlanders is nothing short of legendary. A loyal and dedicated player, he stayed with the club through some of its most trying times. After many of the club’s top players left to form the Olympics in 1976, Mloyi’s loyalty shone through as he remained with Highlanders, one of the few players to continue wearing the Bosso colours. His commitment saw him compete in the South Zone Soccer League, taking on clubs that were relatively unknown at the time.

Mloyi’s status as a “one-club” footballer and his unwavering dedication to Highlanders have earned him a special place in the hearts of fans. His contributions to the club are fondly remembered to this day. Despite a decorated career, his one regret remains the league title in independent Zimbabwe, which eluded him. Nonetheless, he won multiple accolades, including two Castle (FA) Cups.

Mloyi remains deeply grateful to Highlanders, which assisted him in acquiring a house as a reward for his loyalty. He was the second player after Colsen Mabeza to receive such assistance. Mabeza had negotiated the provision of a house as part of his package when transferring from Dynamos to Highlanders.

Mloyi’s appointment to the Bosso board, alongside prominent figures such as Luke Mnkandla, Peter Dube, and Elkanah Dube, underscores the club’s dedication to preserving its traditions and culture while looking ahead to future successes. — @innocentskizoe.