Online Reporter
Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic road traffic accident that claimed the lives of three Highlanders Football Club executive members and a club member, describing the loss as a national tragedy and directing that they be accorded State-assisted funerals.
In a condolence message released by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, the President paid tribute to Highlanders chairman Colonel (Retired) Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Mr Sifiso Siziba and treasurer Mr Nkani Khoza, who died in a road accident while returning from the club’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League away fixture in Kariba.
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sorrow that I learned of the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three distinguished Executive Members of Highlanders Football Club, Colonel (Retd) Kenneth Mhlophe, the Chairman, Mr Sifiso Siziba, the Vice Chairman, and Mr Nkani Khoza, the Treasurer,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President described Highlanders as a national institution whose contribution extends beyond football.
“Highlanders Football Club is more than a team. It is an institution, a symbol of our heritage, unity, and national pride. These departed sons of the soil dedicated their lives to the development of football in Zimbabwe, serving Bosso and the nation with dedication, humility, and love for the game.
“To lose three custodians of such a revered national institution in one tragic moment is a loss, not only to Highlanders, but to the entire nation,” he said.
President Mnangagwa extended his condolences to the bereaved families, Highlanders Football Club and the entire football fraternity.
“On behalf of Government, ZANU PF, and the people of Zimbabwe, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Highlanders Football Club family, to the bereaved families, friends, and to the entire football fraternity.”
derick.khumalo