Published: 11 June 2025

Prominent tenderprenuer Wicknell Chivayo has made headlines with a major donation of US$250,000 to Highlanders Football Club (Bosso), the oldest and one of the most culturally significant football teams in Zimbabwe. The contribution, which forms part of a broader US$1 million sponsorship package to be rolled out over the next year, is aimed at strengthening the club's administrative and technical capabilities ahead of the 2025 Premier Soccer League season.

Chivayo, affectionately known as Sir Wicknell, made the announcement on social media, where he expressed deep admiration for Highlanders FC - a club he described as a "phenomenal cultural icon" and "a symbol of heritage, pride, and unity" for Bulawayo and Zimbabwe at large. Founded in 1926 by the grandsons of King Lobengula, Albert and Rhodes Khumalo, Bosso has long enjoyed passionate support from its community and beyond.

"This heartfelt connection to the Bosso spirit reminded me once again of the unbreakable bond between culture, football, and community," Chivayo said, reflecting on his childhood love for the game and the club. He added that his decision to support Highlanders was not only personal but also inspired by the late Vice President John Landa Nkomo - his uncle - who urged him to support both the ruling ZANU PF party and Highlanders FC.

"Before his passing, my uncle made his wishes very clear to me... that I should always assist Highlanders FC in every possible way, to preserve its history, shape its future, and create a lasting legacy," said Chivayo.

The initial US$250,000 donation will cover Highlanders' administrative costs, with subsequent disbursements set to support the club's recruitment of new talent, player sign-on fees, and efforts to build a more competitive squad for the coming season.

In light of recent controversies involving alleged misappropriation of US$5,000 at the club, Chivayo has moved to reinforce transparency and accountability. He appointed Jabulani Nkomo - a respected businessman and relative - to work alongside Highlanders' leadership in a curatorship role. Nkomo is tasked with ensuring that all funds are disbursed strictly in line with the club's planned expenditures.

"This move is to safeguard the positive impact intended through this sponsorship," Chivayo explained. "It's not about control, but about preserving the integrity of Highlanders FC and promoting its performance sustainably."

He further emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in sports development, aligning his actions with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Vision 2030, which encourages public-private partnerships to uplift the country's socio-economic landscape.

"This is my small token of appreciation to a club that has shaped so many lives. Football unites a nation, and Highlanders FC deserves all the support it can get," said Chivayo.

The gesture has been welcomed by the club's supporters and the football community at large, with many viewing it as a much-needed boost for Bosso, who continue to fight for silverware and restore their dominance in Zimbabwean football.
- bussinessdaily

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