Bongani Ndlovu
Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor
FORMER Highlanders players have thrown their weight behind newly appointed head coach Benjani Mwaruwari and his assistant, Mkhokheli Dube, describing the duo’s arrival as a moment of renewal and homecoming for the Bulawayo giants.
Benjani’s appointment was confirmed by Highlanders in late January, a decision that capped weeks of speculation over the club’s coaching direction ahead of the 2026 Premier Soccer League season.
He arrived in Bulawayo on Saturday, where he was officially welcomed by Highlanders executives, including chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairperson Fiso Siziba, chief executive officer Denzil Mnkandla and assistant coach Dube, before signing his contract and beginning preparations with the senior squad.
In a statement posted on the Facebook page Former Bosso Players, the Highlanders Former Footballers Association said Benjani’s appointment was more than just a technical change, but a return to familiar ground for one of the club’s most celebrated sons.
“Benjani’s return to Bosso is more than an appointment — it is a homecoming,” reads the statement. “As he said on arrival in Bulawayo, Bosso is home.”
The association also congratulated assistant coach Mkhokheli Dube, who is a member of the former players’ body, expressing confidence in his deep understanding of the club’s culture and values.
“To our member Mkhokheli Dube, we say congratulations. Your understanding of Bosso’s culture and values will be key as you support this new technical direction,” the statement said.
The former players emphasised that they appreciate the responsibility that comes with leading Highlanders, one of the country’s most followed and demanding football institutions.
“As former players, we know the weight of this badge and the expectations that come with it. You do not walk alone — you have our full support as you lead the club forward,” said the association.
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