derick.khumalo
Nkosilathi Sibanda
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GRIEF engulfed New Parklands suburb in Bulawayo as family members, friends, neighbours and football stakeholders gathered at the funeral wake of late Highlanders Football Club Chairman Retired Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, remembering him as a humble, selfless and community-minded leader whose generosity extended far beyond football.
Mhlophe, who died in a road traffic accident on Thursday night alongside Highlanders vice-chairman Fiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza, was described by mourners as a man who dedicated his life to serving both the Bosso family and his local community.
Neighbours in New Parklands said Mhlophe was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever the community faced security challenges through his company, Nokel Security.
They said the company regularly provided security services during community events and whenever residents required assistance, making him a dependable pillar of the suburb.
“He never turned his back on the community. Whenever there was a need for security at community events or any emergency, Nokel Security would always come through. He was a man who believed in serving people,” said one neighbour.
Mourners also spoke of Mhlophe’s humility, saying despite his achievements in business and football administration, he remained approachable and treated everyone with respect.
Many described his death as a huge loss not only to Highlanders Football Club but also to the New Parklands community, where he had earned admiration for his generosity and commitment to community development.
His funeral wake continued to draw scores of mourners, with tributes pouring in from across the country as Zimbabwe continues to mourn one of football’s most respected administrators.
Blessing Chizhande
Bongani Ndlovu