BULAWAYO – The Highlanders Football Club family will today bid a final farewell to former chairman Retired Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe and devoted Bosso supporter Thabani Ncube, whose deaths have plunged Zimbabwean football into mourning.
Mhlophe, who also served as Premier Soccer League vice-chairman, died alongside Highlanders vice-chairman Sifiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza in a tragic road traffic accident last week. The accident claimed the lives of four people and sent shockwaves across the country’s football fraternity.
A funeral service for Mhlophe is scheduled for today before his burial, with Highlanders members, football administrators, supporters and Government officials expected to attend in large numbers. The Government has moved to accord State-assisted funerals to Mhlophe, Siziba and Khoza in recognition of their immense contribution to Zimbabwean football and public service.
The club is also mourning passionate supporter and Bulawayo socialite Thabani Ncube, who will be laid to rest today. Ncube was widely known among the Bosso faithful for his unwavering support of the club and regular presence at Highlanders matches, making his passing another painful loss for the football community.
Since news of the tragedy broke, condolences have poured in from across Zimbabwe and beyond, with football clubs, supporters’ associations, civic leaders and Government officials paying tribute to the deceased. Highlanders described the deaths as a devastating blow to the club, while supporters have continued gathering to honour the memories of the departed executives and loyal fan.
The funeral proceedings are expected to draw thousands of mourners, reflecting the significant impact Mhlophe had on Highlanders Football Club and Zimbabwean football. During his tenure, he was credited with providing steady leadership to one of the country’s most decorated football institutions, while Ncube earned admiration for his lifelong dedication to the black-and-white colours of Bosso.
As Highlanders mourns one of the darkest chapters in its history, today’s burials will mark a solemn moment of remembrance for two men whose lives, in different ways, were deeply intertwined with the club’s rich heritage and passionate supporter base.
