Africa-Press – Eswatini. Mbabane Highlanders AM’s Lady President, Shaun Mkhize, has provided a bus for supporters to travel to the funeral of late supporter Luthando Kunene in Eswatini, following her passing earlier last week, to ensure safe and coordinated transport as the club and fans come together to pay their final respects.
The gesture reflects a moment of unity within the Mbabane Highlanders family, as the club, management and supporters continue to rally around the Kunene family during a period of grief, while also celebrating the strong bond that defines the Black Bull community.
The development comes as football communities across Eswatini continue to highlight the growing importance of supporter welfare and emotional support systems within the sport, especially during moments of loss when unity becomes essential beyond matchday activities.
Before kickoff in recent MTN Premier League fixtures, Mbabane Highlanders held a moment of silence in honour of Kunene, acknowledging her contribution as a dedicated supporter whose presence in the stands was marked by passion, loyalty and vocal encouragement for the team.
The club noted that supporters like Kunene play a vital role in building team morale and strengthening the identity of the club, often forming the emotional backbone that drives players during competitive matches. Speaking within the club’s message of condolence, the Highlanders family described Kunene as a valued supporter whose energy and dedication contributed to unity in the stands. “Grief found us, but so did unity,” the club said, highlighting the strength of togetherness during difficult moments.
Shaun Mkhize’s decision to provide transport has been widely welcomed by supporters, who described the gesture as a powerful example of leadership and compassion, ensuring that financial challenges do not prevent fans from paying their final respects.
Club officials said the initiative also strengthens the culture of care within the team, reinforcing the idea that football clubs are not only competitive institutions but also extended families that support one another in times of need.
Similar gestures within Eswatini football in recent years have shown how clubs increasingly step in to support bereaved families and supporters, reflecting a growing recognition of the social role played by sport in communities. The Mbabane Highlanders family has restated its message of solidarity, stating that the team moves forward “as one family” under the Black Bull spirit, carrying forward the legacy of unity, compassion and support.
The club is expected to continue honouring Kunene’s memory in upcoming fixtures, with further tributes anticipated as the season progresses.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
