Andile Tshuma

Zimpapers Reporter

Highlanders Football Club is marking 100 years of existence with an ambitious legacy drive that places community, culture and long-term development at the centre of its celebrations.

Ahead of the public launch set for December 22, the Bulawayo giants are courting strategic partners to support a range of infrastructure and heritage projects designed to cement the club’s footprint beyond the pitch. The initiatives form part of a broader vision to build a sustainable future for the institution while honouring generations of players, supporters and administrators who shaped its identity.

Key projects lined up include the establishment of a Highlanders museum chronicling the club’s history and its icons, the publication of a commemorative Century Magazine, and the hosting of the Umcimbi weBosso musical event as well as a marathon to push health and wellness in the community, expected to become a flagship sporting and cultural event.

The club also plans to develop an amusement park to enhance family-friendly offerings as well as invest in female-friendly stadia facilities to promote inclusivity and improve the match-day experience for women.

Club officials said the centenary milestone presents an opportunity to give back to Bulawayo through projects that uplift the city while strengthening Highlanders’ community roots.

“We are not here for charity; we are here to invest back into the city through activities that promote culture, pride and football,” said Possenti Sikhosana.

Running under the theme “Beyond Football: Inspiring Generations, celebrating a passion driven century rooted in pride, culture and football.”

The centenary programme seeks to celebrate Highlanders’ heritage while positioning the club for the next century as both a sporting institution and a cultural symbol for the region.