Staff Writer
The Gweru-based business conglomerate, River Valley Group of Companies, has added its voice to the national outpouring of grief following the tragic deaths of three Highlanders Football Club executives and a club member in a fatal road accident last week.
The devastating crash occurred on Thursday along the Harare-Bulawayo Highway, roughly 60 kilometres outside Bulawayo.
The officials’ Ford Raptor was involved in a severe collision that left the vehicle mangled and its occupants trapped inside.
The accident claimed the lives of Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Sifiso Siziba, and treasurer Nkani Khoza. Club member Mbalenhle Sibanda also perished in the incident.
The delegation was returning from Kariba, where the club had faced ZPC Kariba in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match on Wednesday afternoon.
In a heartfelt condolence message, the Group Chairman, Eng. Dr. Mncedisi Dube; CEO, Amb. Prof. Smelly Dube; alongside management and staff of River Valley Group, expressed their profound sorrow over the untimely loss.
“We are deeply saddened by this immense loss,” the statement read. “Their passion, dedication, and outstanding service to Highlanders Football Club and the broader sporting fraternity will forever be remembered and cherished.”
The national government, led by President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, has also extended its condolences through Finance Minister, Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube, over the weekend.
In recognition of their contribution to the nation, President Mnangagwa has granted the fallen officials a State-assisted funeral.
The River Valley Group has called on the public to offer warm prayers for the bereaved families, urging strength and comfort as they navigate this difficult period.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, loved ones, the Club, and the entire football community during this very difficult time. May their souls rest in eternal peace,” the statement concluded.
The Highlanders family will gather at Barbourfields Stadium on Monday, 27 July 2026, for a combined send-off ceremony to honour the lives of the departed executives.
This gesture of solidarity comes just a few months after River Valley Group demonstrated its humanitarian spirit following the tragic loss of seven school pupils in a fire in Gweru’s Senga suburb.
About Author
