Online Reporter
Vusumuzi Dube
The ZIFA Southern Region has joined the growing chorus of tributes following the deaths of Highlanders Football Club chairman Retired Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, vice chairman Sifiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza, who were killed in a road traffic accident on Thursday.
In a statement, the regional football body expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the Highlanders fraternity and the nation, describing the trio as dedicated leaders whose contribution to football would leave a lasting legacy.
The three executives died while returning from Highlanders’ Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against ZPC Kariba, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves through Zimbabwean football.
The regional body said the loss was particularly painful as it came during Highlanders’ centenary celebrations.
“Rtd Colonel Mhlophe, Mr Siziba, and Mr Khoza were more than administrators; they were dedicated custodians of one of Zimbabwe’s most historic football institutions.
“At a time when Highlanders faced significant challenges, they accepted the responsibility of leadership with courage, unity, and an unwavering commitment to restoring stability, sound governance, and renewed confidence within the club.
“It is disheartening the tragedy occurred in a year the Club is celebrating 100 years of existence, the loss has left a stain in this historic year,” the statement read.
The ZIFA Southern Region noted that it hosts Highlanders’ developmental side, Bosso90, in the Pacific Breeze Southern Region Soccer League, describing the club as an important contributor to the development of young footballers in the region.
ZIFA Southern Region chairman Cris Mtungwazi said the three executives had served football with distinction.
“Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, Sifiso Siziba, and Nkani Khoza led with dignity, humility, and an unwavering sense of responsibility not only at Highlanders but in the wider Southern Region football community.
“In honour of the departed, we will be observing a minute of silence at each Pacific Breeze Southern Region Soccer League match that will be played during Week 19, this weekend.
“Their commitment helped steady one of our country’s greatest football institutions, and their contribution to the broader football family will never be forgotten. On behalf of the ZIFA Southern Region Board, our member clubs, and the entire football community, we convey our heartfelt condolences to their families and to the Highlanders family. We pray that they find strength and comfort during this profoundly difficult time, and may the souls of our departed football leaders rest in eternal peace,” said Mtungwazi.
The regional football body also called on the football fraternity to unite in support of the bereaved families and honour the memory of the three administrators by upholding the values of unity, service, integrity and commitment to the game.
derick.khumalo