The Highlanders Football Club community is mourning the deaths of four members who were killed in a tragic road accident while returning from the club’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against ZPC Kariba.
The fatal Highlanders FC accident occurred on Thursday at Lochard in Insiza District, Zimbabwe, as the group travelled back from the team’s away fixture in Kariba. All four victims died at the scene, leaving the club, their families, and the wider Zimbabwean football community devastated.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has since granted State-assisted funerals to the four Highlanders Football Club members in recognition of their contributions to sport and the community.
Personal Details of the Highlanders FC Accident Victims
Kenneth Mhlophe — Chairman, Highlanders Football Club
Fiso Siziba — Vice-Chairman, Highlanders Football Club
Nkani Khoza — Board Member Responsible for Finance
Mbalenhle Sibanda — Highlanders Football Club Member
Date of Accident: Thursday
Location: Lochard, Insiza District, Zimbabwe
Circumstances: Fatal road traffic accident while returning from the club’s away match against ZPC Kariba
Cause of Death: Fatal injuries sustained in the road accident
Funeral Status: State-assisted funerals granted
Funeral Arrangements: To be announced by the respective families in consultation with the Government and Highlanders Football Club
Four Highlanders FC Members Killed in Road Accident
The four Highlanders FC members were travelling home after attending the club’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League away match against ZPC Kariba when the vehicle they were travelling in was involved in a fatal crash at Lochard.
The collision claimed all four lives at the scene.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Highlanders Football Club, one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent football institutions. The victims were not only connected to the club but also held important roles in its administration and wider operations.
Their deaths have therefore created a profound sense of grief among club officials, players, supporters, colleagues, friends, and relatives.
President Mnangagwa Grants State-Assisted Funerals
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has granted State-assisted funeral status to the four victims.
The decision recognizes their contributions to Highlanders Football Club, Zimbabwean football, and the broader community.
The development was confirmed by Judith Ncube, Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, during a condolence visit to Highlanders’ offices along Robert Mugabe Way on Saturday afternoon.
Minister Ncube said the State-assisted funeral arrangements would apply to:
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Kenneth Mhlophe
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Fiso Siziba
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Nkani Khoza
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Mbalenhle Sibanda
Following her visit to the club, Minister Ncube travelled with senior Government officials and security service chiefs to visit the bereaved families.
The delegation conveyed condolences and formally informed the families of the Government’s decision.
Highlanders Football Club Community Mourns
The deaths have left a deep void within Highlanders FC.
Kenneth Mhlophe served as the club’s chairman, while Fiso Siziba held the position of vice-chairman. Nkani Khoza was responsible for finance on the club’s board, and Mbalenhle Sibanda was also a member of the Highlanders community.
Together, they represented different aspects of the club’s leadership and administration.
Their sudden deaths have therefore been felt across the organization, with supporters and members of the football community mourning the loss of individuals who played important roles in the club’s affairs.
Families Await Funeral Arrangements
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the respective families in consultation with the Government and Highlanders Football Club.
The State-assisted funeral designation is expected to provide support as the families prepare to lay their loved ones to rest.
Further details regarding funeral services, memorial ceremonies, and burial arrangements are expected to be communicated once finalized.
Highlanders FC Accident Leaves Lasting Impact
The fatal road accident has become one of the most painful tragedies to affect the Highlanders Football Club community.
The four men were returning from a football fixture when their journey ended in tragedy at Lochard. Their deaths have brought together the club, government officials, football supporters, and the wider community in mourning.
As families grieve and funeral arrangements are prepared, tributes continue to honor the lives and contributions of Kenneth Mhlophe, Fiso Siziba, Nkani Khoza, and Mbalenhle Sibanda.
Their legacy within Highlanders Football Club and Zimbabwean football will be remembered by the many people who knew them and benefited from their service to the sport.
May they rest in peace.
Disclaimer
Funeral and memorial arrangements may change as the respective families, Government authorities, and Highlanders Football Club finalize plans. Additional details may be added as official information becomes available.