Mbembesi Highlanders crash victims’ memorial set as more tributes pour in
By Staff Reporter
Highlanders acting chairman Kindman Ndlovu has announced that a memorial service for the four victims of the Mbembesi road accident will be held on Monday at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo as more tributes pour in.
Gweru based business conglomerate River Valley Group of Companies yesterday joined the nation in paying tribute to the fallen Highlanders executives.
The Highlanders Football Club executive members died in a fatal road accident on the Harare-Bulawayo Highway, approximately 60 kilometres outside Bulawayo, after their Ford Raptor was involved in a severe collision that left the vehicle mangled and the occupants trapped in the wreckage.
The crash claimed the lives of Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Sifiso Siziba and treasurer Nkani Khoza.
The officials were travelling from Kariba, where the club played ZPC Kariba in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match on Wednesday afternoon.
In a condolence statement, the Chairman, Eng. Dr. Mncedisi Dube, The CEO, Amb. Prof. Smelly Dube, management and staff of River Valley Group (Pvt) Ltd said they were all heartbroken by the loss.
“We are deeply saddened by this immense loss,” reads the statement.
“Their passion, dedication and outstanding service to Highlanders Football Club and the sport will forever be remembered and cherished.”
The government of Zimbabwe led by Preaident Emmerson Mnangagwa sent their condolences through Finance Minister Prof Mthuli Ncube over the weekend.
The River Valley Group of Companies called for warm prayers for the bereaved families so that they can quickly recover from the shock and depression.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, loved ones, the Club and the entire football community during this very difficult time. May Thein Souls Rest in Peace,” reads the statement.
The service for the deceased is scheduled to begin at 9am, with gates opening at 7am.
The bodies of the four victims will be present, and all Zimbabweans are invited to attend and pay their final respects.
