Highlanders’ centenary of tears continues as six supporters perish near Filabusi

Highlanders Football Club have confirmed that six of their supporters from Filabusi died in a road accident on Sunday, 23 August 2026.

In a statement issued on Monday, 24 August 2026, Bosso said the fans were on their way back to Filabusi after watching the club’s Premier Soccer League match against Herentals FC at Barbourfields Stadium.

The accident happened about 15 kilometres from Filabusi.

It has been a very difficult centenary year for Bosso, with the club hit by grief several times.

On Friday, 3 April 2026, seven supporters died in a road accident as they were coming back from a league match against FC Platinum at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo.

Then on 23 July, the club’s chairman, vice-chairman, treasurer and a devoted supporter died together.

Retired Colonel Kenneth Mhlophe, the chairman, aged 70, Sifiso Siziba, the vice-chairman, aged 55, Nkani Khoza, the treasurer and executive member for finance, aged 66, and Mbalenhle Sibanda, a supporter, aged 27, died after their vehicle hit a cow.

The crash was at the 380-kilometre peg on the Harare-Bulawayo Road near Mbembesi. They were returning from a PSL match against ZPC Kariba in Kariba.

Early this month, long-serving finance officer Sihlalisiwe Mnkandla died. She had been with the club since 2005. Her death came just over a week after the July accident.

Also this month, Jimmy Ncube, a long-time Bosso patron, died at the age of 90 after a period of ill health.

“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the President, Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Secretariat, Technical Team, players, members and supporters of Highlanders Football Club announce the tragic passing of six of our beloved supporters in a road accident on Sunday, 23 August 2026,” the statement reads.

“The supporters were travelling back to Filabusi after watching our Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match against Herentals FC at Barbourfields Stadium when the accident occurred approximately 15 km from Filabusi.

“On behalf of the Club, we extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the bereaved families, relatives and friends. We share in your grief.

“These supporters travelled in the true spirit of Highlanders, with love, loyalty and pride for the Club.

“They were part of our 100-year family, and their absence will be deeply felt on the terraces of Barbourfields Stadium.

“We also wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured and are currently receiving treatment. Four have been admitted to Filabusi Hospital, while one is in critical condition at UBH in Bulawayo.

We thank the ZRP, emergency services, Filabusi Hospital, UBH and all stakeholders who responded swiftly and assisted the affected families.”