Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
THE tragic deaths of Highlanders Football Club chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, Bosso vice-chairman Sifiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza have plunged Zimbabwe into mourning, with arts organisation Umahlekisa Entertainment becoming the latest to pay tribute to the departed administrators.
On Friday, Highlanders confirmed the devastating news that the three senior club officials were killed in a road traffic accident along the Harare-Bulawayo Road on Thursday night, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves across Zimbabwean football and cast a sombre cloud over the club’s centenary celebrations.
The loss has resonated far beyond the football fraternity, with the creative sector rallying behind the country’s oldest and most celebrated football institution at a time of profound grief.
Among those expressing solidarity is Umahlekisa Entertainment, which is preparing to stage The Roast of Bosso@100, a one-night-only theatrical production that was conceived as a light-hearted celebration of Highlanders’ rich century-long history through comedy, music, storytelling and nostalgia.
Scheduled for August 21 at Bulawayo’s Large City Hall, the production is expected to bring together football lovers, theatre enthusiasts and the wider community in honour of Bosso’s remarkable 100-year journey. However, following the untimely passing of three of the club’s senior executives, the event now carries an added emotional significance as the city continues to mourn.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Umahlekisa Entertainment said it stood firmly with Highlanders Football Club during one of the darkest chapters in its history.
“Umahlekisa Entertainment extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to the Highlanders Football Club family following the tragic passing of members of the club’s executive in a devastating road traffic accident. We are profoundly saddened by this heart-breaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the Highlanders leadership, players, supporters, and the entire football fraternity during this difficult time.”
The organisation said the contributions made by the late administrators would forever remain part of Highlanders’ rich legacy and Zimbabwe’s football history.
“The contribution of the departed leaders to Highlanders Football Club and Zimbabwean football will always be remembered. Their commitment, dedication, and service helped shape one of the nation’s most cherished sporting institutions, and their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Recognising the magnitude of the loss, Umahlekisa Entertainment pledged its unwavering support to the Bosso family as it comes to terms with the tragedy.
“As Umahlekisa Entertainment, we stand in solidarity with Highlanders Football Club and all those affected by this tragedy. We pray for strength, comfort, and healing for everyone mourning this immense loss. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.”
The statement reflects the close relationship between football and the performing arts in Bulawayo, where Highlanders Football Club has long been more than just a sporting institution. For decades, Bosso has served as a cultural symbol whose influence extends into music, theatre, literature and the city’s broader social fabric.
It is against this backdrop that The Roast of Bosso@100 was conceptualised — not merely as a comedy show, but as a theatrical love letter to a club whose history mirrors that of Bulawayo itself.
The production aims to revisit memorable moments from Highlanders’ illustrious century through humour, heartfelt storytelling, music and nostalgic reflections, celebrating the personalities, triumphs and enduring spirit that have defined Bosso over the past 100 years.
Now, as the club and the nation mourn the loss of three dedicated administrators, the event is poised to become more than a centenary celebration. It is expected to also serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and stewardship of leaders whose commitment helped preserve the legacy of one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic sporting institutions.
For Highlanders supporters, the centenary year was always intended to be one of celebration. Instead, it has become a period marked by both pride and profound sorrow — honouring a century of excellence while bidding farewell to three custodians whose service will forever be etched into Bosso’s history. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
derick.khumalo