Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE football fraternity is in mourning following the heartbreaking revelation that late FC Platinum and former Highlanders midfielder, Brian “Bibiza Ndazula” Banda, died just two weeks after the birth of his son, without ever laying eyes on him.
“It’s unfortunate. We’ve lost a brother, someone we trusted completely,” said his grieving sister, Beauty Dube. “He leaves behind three children. The youngest is a baby boy we’d only christened Junior. It’s painful that he passed on before he even held his two-week-old son.”
Banda (29), affectionately known as BB, was the only son in a family of four. He is survived by three children — Bandile Primrose Banda, Langelihle Banda, and the newborn boy he had promised to name once he met him.
The funeral wake at his mother’s house in Cowdray Park, which Banda built himself, has become a shrine of sorrow and solidarity. Former players Gift Lunga (Snr), Charles Sibanda, and FC Platinum official Denzel Mnkandla joined scores of mourners in paying their respects. Banda’s close friend and ex-teammate Devine Mhindirira broke down in uncontrollable tears.
BB died in the early hours of June 29 in a horrific crash near the Fred Mine turn-off. He was a passenger in a Toyota Corolla Bubble belonging to Proton Bakeries. The driver attempted a risky overtake at a blind spot, swerved to avoid an oncoming vehicle, and lost control. The car overturned and Banda, along with another passenger, died on the spot.
Tragically, the accident came a day after Banda had watched his FC Platinum teammates draw 1–1 with defending champions Simba Bhora at Mandava Stadium. He missed the match due to injury.
FC Platinum confirmed the tragedy in an emotional statement.
“We are deeply saddened to share the news of Brian Banda’s passing. We have lost a remarkable player, a beloved teammate and friend. His dedication and enthusiasm left a lasting impression. May his spirit continue to inspire us.”
The Premier Soccer League also paid tribute, describing Banda as a player who graced the league with “skill, passion, and unwavering commitment.”
Zimbabwean football is struggling to come to terms with the shocking loss. BB is a young father taken too soon, before he could cradle his newborn son.
