Zimbabwean giants Highlanders FC have appointed SA coach Thabo Senong as their new head coach ahead of the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season which kicks off in March.
The 45-year-old mentor, Senong, will be assisted by former AmaZulu FC striker Mkhokheli Dube, a former Highlanders player himself. Senong replaces Dutchman Pieter de Jongh, who was let go in December 2025. Details of his contract have not been revealed.
Highlanders, who are celebrating 100 years of existence, are hoping Senong will help turn a corner for the club, which last won the league title in 2006 then under Methembe Ndlovu.
The club was enticed by Senong’s impressive background, which includes working with South Africa’s senior and Under-20 national teams. He also took charge of Lesotho’s senior men’s team between 2019 and 2021.
His most notable achievement is winning the 2013 COSAFA Cup Under-20 tournament. Senong also spent some time at Singida Fountain Gate in Tanzania and Sekhukhune United.
WHAT HIGHLANDERS SAID ON THABO SENONG’S APPOINTMENT
In a statement released on Sunday night, Bosso, as Highlanders are fondly known, expressed confidence in Senong’s ability to change the club’s fortunes.
“Highlanders Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Thabo Senong as the club’s new head coach, alongside the return of Mkhokheli Dube as assistant coach,” the statement reads.
“Coach Senong brings a wealth of experience at elite level football, having worked with the South African Senior and Under-20 National Teams, the Lesotho Senior Men’s National Team, and achieved notable success at youth level, including winning the COSAFA Cup Under-20 tournament in 2013.
“His strong background in youth development, tactical organisation, and team building makes him a valuable addition to the Bosso technical team. Mkhokheli Dube returns to the club as a familiar and respected member of the Bosso family, having previously represented Highlanders as a player.
“His deep understanding of the club’s culture, values, and traditions, coupled with his passion and experience, will play a key role in supporting the technical team and motivating the squad both on and off the pitch.”
Meanwhile, Senong’s assistant, Dube, has been carving a niche in Zimbabwe’s developmental structures with his club Zebra Revolution, which competes in the Southern Region Soccer League [First Division].
RELATED STORY:All set for Thabo Senong’s move to Highlanders FC