from MELUSI MHLANGA in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Bureau
BULAWAYO, (CAJ News) – HIGHLANDRES Football Club has announced the appointment of Benjani Mwaruwari as its new head coach ahead of the 2026 Premier Soccer League (PSL) season, a move that excites supporters and ignites hopes of restoring the Bulawayo giants to championship contention.
The club’s chairman, Kenneth Mhlophe, confirmed the decision, saying the appointment is part of a strategic push to bring respected football figures into leadership roles at Highlanders.
Benjani, widely known simply by his first name, is one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated football exports.
Born in Bulawayo on August 13, 1978, he began his senior career with Jomo Cosmos in South Africa before moving to Europe, where he featured for Swiss side Grasshoppers and French club AJ Auxerre.
His success in Europe culminated in a prolific stint in the English Premier League with Portsmouth, Manchester City, Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers, before finishing his playing career in South Africa with Chippa United and Bidvest Wits in 2014.
As a player, Benjani earned recognition as one of Africa’s top forwards of his generation.
He won the Coupe de France with Auxerre and played a pivotal role in Portsmouth’s memorable campaigns in England’s topflight, including scoring against Manchester United on his Manchester City debut.
He also captained the Zimbabwe national team, the Warriors, and represented his country at the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations.
After retirement, Benjani transitioned into coaching, gaining valuable experience as assistant coach to the Zimbabwe national team and earning the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) coaching qualifications.
His only previous managerial role in Zimbabwe was with Ngezi Platinum Stars, though it was a brief tenure.
Highlanders’ officials believe that Benjani’s global experience, leadership and deep understanding of football will be instrumental in reviving the club’s fortunes.
“We are confident that Benjani brings a wealth of international exposure, tactical insight and a winning mentality that aligns with Highlanders’ ambitions,” said club CEO Denzil Mnkandla.
“His appointment represents a new era for Bosso.”
Supporters see Benjani’s arrival as a potential turning point.
Highlanders, one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most storied clubs, have not lifted the league title in recent years but hope his pedigree can spark a championship challenge.
His understanding of both African and European football cultures could help bridge gaps in strategy, fitness and youth development.
Critically, Benjani’s success will hinge on attracting strong support talent around him and converting his ideas into consistent results on the pitch.
The season ahead will be a test of whether his vision can translate into trophies, but for many Highlanders fans, his name alone inspires belief.
As Highlanders prepare for the new campaign, all eyes will be on Benjani Mwaruwari — a national icon returning home to apply his global expertise in pursuit of local glory.
– CAJ News