Highlanders bid farewell to Jimmy Ncube in centenary year of grief

Jimmy Ncube, who died aged 90, has been laid to rest as Highlanders mourn one of the senior figures who helped shape the club. His funeral was held at Lady Stanley Cemetery in Bulawayo, where he was buried in the section reserved for eminent citizens.

Family members, friends, football officials and Bulawayo residents gathered to honour Ncube, whose public service and football work were closely linked to the city. His burial places him among other notable Highlanders figures, including Tymon Mabaleka, Willard Khumalo and Barry Daka.

Ncube spent 39 years working for Bulawayo City Council after joining as a clerk in 1962. He rose through the administration and contributed to the development of suburbs including Mahatshula, Emakhandeni, Nkulumane, Nketa, Lobengula West, Pumula South and Cowdray Park before leaving the council in 2001.

At Highlanders, Ncube served as board secretary and later became a patron. Club leaders valued his experience and sought his guidance during difficult periods, while his reputation for dignity and commitment extended beyond the football club into the wider community.

His death has deepened a painful period for Highlanders during their centenary year. Chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, vice-chairman Fiso Siziba, finance board member Nkani Khoza and supporter Mbalenhle Sibanda died in a road accident last month after the team’s 1-0 defeat at ZPC Kariba. Long-serving finance officer Sihlalisiwe Mnkandla died the following week.

Highlanders are seventh in the 2026 Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League with 38 points from 26 matches. They have won eight games, drawn 14 and lost four, scoring 24 goals and conceding 20. Their last five league matches have produced two wins, two draws and one defeat, with the next fixture against Herentals on 23 August.