Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Sports Reporter
WHAT was meant to be a year of celebration has instead become one of the darkest chapters in Highlanders Football Club’s illustrious history.
As Bosso mark 100 years of existence, the black-and-white family has been plunged into deep mourning following the tragic loss of three executive committee members, chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Fiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza, in a horrific road traffic accident along the Harare-Bulawayo Road on Thursday night
The deaths have sent shockwaves across Zimbabwe and beyond, leaving the football fraternity united in grief.
Messages of condolence have poured in from clubs, former players, supporters, administrators and ordinary football lovers, all paying tribute to men who dedicated their time, expertise and passion to the country’s oldest and most decorated football institution.
For Highlanders, this is more than the loss of administrators. It is the loss of custodians of the club’s proud heritage, men who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure Bosso remained a symbol of unity, excellence and resilience.
The tragedy comes at a particularly cruel moment. Throughout 2026, Highlanders have been commemorating their centenary, reflecting on a century of unforgettable triumphs, legendary players and unwavering support from generations of fans. Instead of celebrating that milestone with unbridled joy, the Bosso family now finds itself mourning three lives cut short.
Football has always been described as a family and nowhere has that sentiment been felt more strongly than in Bulawayo over the past moments beginning late Thursday night. The grief has transcended club rivalries, with supporters of rival teams standing shoulder to shoulder with Highlanders faithfuls in offering condolences.
In moments like these, league tables, rivalries and trophies become insignificant. What remains is humanity and the shared pain of losing people whose commitment helped shape Zimbabwean football.
The tragedy is also a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by football administrators, many of whom spend countless hours travelling across the country in service of the game, often without the recognition afforded to players and coaches.
“To perish in the line of duty while serving a beloved club on a purely voluntary basis, as did Chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice chairman Fiso Siziba and executive member (Finance) Nkani Khoza, is not merely tragic; it is an act of supreme heroism,” wrote ex-Bosso and Scottland FC chief executive officer Ronald Moyo.
He added: “Few truly comprehend the depth of sacrifice demanded of those who devote themselves to this club without expectation of reward. These three gentlemen gave not only their time and personal resources but also placed themselves in harm’s way for the institution they cherished, ultimately paying the highest price.”
Zifa described the tragedy as an immeasurable loss not only for Highlanders but also for the city of Bulawayo and the country’s football fraternity.
“This is an immeasurable loss for Highlanders Football Club, the city of Bulawayo, and the Zimbabwean football family. Their unwavering commitment, selfless service and leadership made an enduring contribution to one of the country’s most iconic football institutions,” read part of the statement.
The association noted the cruel timing of the tragedy, saying what was meant to be a year of celebration for the Bulawayo giants had instead turned into one of immense sorrow.
“As Highlanders Football Club commemorates its centenary year, a landmark occasion meant to celebrate a century of excellence, resilience and pride, the Bosso family has instead been plunged into profound grief,” Zifa said.
Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi said Zimbabwean football had lost three devoted servants whose dedication helped shape one of the country’s biggest football clubs.
“Today, Zimbabwean football has lost three devoted servants whose passion and commitment helped shape one of our nation’s greatest football institutions. We are devastated by this heart-breaking tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Kenneth Mhlophe, Fiso Siziba and Nkani Khoza, as well as the entire Highlanders family,” said Magwizi.
“It is especially painful that this loss comes during Highlanders’ centenary year, a time that should have been filled with celebration and reflection on a remarkable legacy. Instead, the football family is united in mourning. We pray that God grants comfort, strength and peace to every grieving heart and may the souls of our departed brothers rest in eternal peace.”
Highlanders Former Footballers Association (HFFA) also joined the football fraternity in mourning the tragic deaths.
The association said it was deeply saddened by the loss of the three club executives, describing their deaths as a huge blow to Highlanders and Zimbabwean football.
“As former players, we are devastated by this immense loss to our club, to their families and to Zimbabwean football,” read part of the statement.
As Highlanders continue their centenary journey, the memories of the three executives will forever form part of the club’s 100-year story. Their legacy will live on in every match played, every decision taken in the boardroom and every supporter who proudly sings Bosso songs from the terraces.
The black-and-white flag will continue to fly, but it will do so carrying the weight of profound loss.
In this hour of sorrow, Highlanders are not mourning alone. Zimbabwe mourns with Bosso.
May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace and may their families, friends and the entire Highlanders community find strength and comfort during this heart-breaking time.
derick.khumalo