Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube [email protected]
HIGHLANDERS yesterday said its final goodbye to one of its most respected elders, Jimmy Ncube, as family, friends, football officials and Bulawayo residents gathered to honour a man whose life was closely intertwined with both the city and the club he loved.
Ncube, who died on Tuesday night at the age of 90 after battling ill health, was laid to rest at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo. He was buried in a section reserved for eminent citizens who made outstanding contributions to the city, joining other distinguished Highlanders figures such as Tymon Mabaleka, Willard Khumalo and Barry Daka.
His passing marks the end of a life dedicated to public service and football, leaving behind a legacy that stretches from the offices of the Bulawayo City Council to the corridors of Highlanders Football Club.
Speaking during the funeral service, Bulawayo City Council representative Jerry Sibanda paid tribute to Ncube’s long and distinguished career in local government. Sibanda, who was employed by
Ncube in 1989, recalled the role the late Highlanders patron played in shaping his own life.
“On 5 December 1989, I was engaged by him. I was interviewed by him, that is how I got my employment coming from Gwanda,” said Sibanda, a former Gwanda Ramblers, Eagles and Highlanders striker.
He reflected on Ncube’s remarkable rise through the ranks at the city council after joining as a clerk more than six decades ago.
“Ncube joined Bulawayo City Council on 4 April 1962 as a clerk. He rose through the ranks and was promoted to administration officer and continued to rise to senior administration officer and even acted as assistant housing director,” said Sibanda.
Throughout his nearly four decades at the council, Ncube played a key role in some of Bulawayo’s most significant housing developments. His work touched the lives of thousands of residents as the city expanded and new suburbs were established.
Sibanda said Ncube was closely associated with the development of suburbs including Mahatshula, Emakhandeni, Nkulumane, Nketa and Lobengula West. “Among some of the other projects he was involved with is Pumula South and Cowdray Park. Ncube contributed immensely to the growth of Bulawayo as a worker, he was loyal and dedicated. He worked for 39 years and quit on June 30, 2001,” said Sibanda.
Having worked alongside Ncube at both Highlanders and Bulawayo City Council, Sibanda described him as a dignified and committed individual whose influence extended far beyond his professional responsibilities.
While Ncube made a lasting contribution to the city, it was at Highlanders where many supporters came to know and respect him. His death comes during a difficult and painful period for the club, which has been struck by a series of tragedies in recent weeks. Highlanders board chairman Luke Mnkandla said a year that was supposed to be filled with celebrations as the club marks its centenary had instead been overshadowed by grief.
“The 100 years celebrations has turned into a year of mourning,” said Mnkandla.
His remarks reflected the sadness that has engulfed the club following the deaths of several senior figures.
Just last month, Highlanders lost chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Fiso Siziba and executive board member responsible for finance Nkani Khoza in a tragic road accident. The trio died while returning from Kariba, where Bosso had lost 1-0 to ZPC Kariba. The same accident also claimed the life of devoted club supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda, who regularly travelled around the country following the team.
Only last week, the club suffered another loss with the death of long-serving finance officer Sihlalisiwe Mnkandla. Against that backdrop, Ncube’s passing has deepened the sense of loss within the Bosso family.
Mnkandla described the late patron as a respected elder whose wisdom helped guide the club through many challenges over the years.
Recalling Ncube’s arrival into the club’s administration, Mnkandla said Highlanders leaders deliberately sought a younger person who could help strengthen its structures.
“They went for Ncube and made him board secretary. Death has robbed us from bottom to top with his death leaving us an insurmountable task,” said Mnkandla.
He spoke warmly about Ncube’s counsel, saying many club leaders relied on his experience whenever difficult issues arose.
“At times when there challenges during Ndumiso Gumede’s times, we would meet over breakfast or inhloko to listen to his wise counsel. Hopefully we will rise from these setbacks,” said Mnkandla who took a dig on content creators who were feasting on his Highlanders.
Away from football, Ncube was also remembered as a community-minded resident who was always willing to assist others.
Sunninghill Residents Association chairman Patrick Changunda described him as a dependable and supportive member of the community.
“It’s a great loss,” Changunda summed Ncube’s death.The funeral drew mourners from all walks of life, reflecting the respect Ncube commanded across Bulawayo. Former colleagues, football administrators, supporters, community leaders and ordinary residents gathered to celebrate a life defined by service, humility and dedication.
For Highlanders, Bulawayo and the many people whose lives he touched, Jimmy Ncube will be remembered as a loyal servant, wise counsellor and proud son of the city. He is survived by his wife, Sithiyiwe, and two children, Sikhanyiso and Melusi.
