By Judith Matanire
Controversial businessman and tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has once again splashed millions on local football giants Highlanders FC, rewarding the club’s leadership with luxury vehicles and confirming the completion of a US$1 million sponsorship pledge.
Chivayo’s latest gesture follows Highlanders’ 1–0 victory over Dynamos FC in a tightly contested Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter, a result that has reignited optimism among Bosso supporters ahead of the 2026 season.
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In a celebratory message punctuated with the club’s famous chant “Bosso iBosso… Siyinqaba”, Chivayo praised the team’s leadership and declared that a motivated and well-led squad would deliver results in the upcoming campaign.
As part of the reward package, Highlanders Head Coach, former Zimbabwe international Benjani Mwaruwari, is set to receive a brand new 2026 Ford Everest 3.0D Limited Edition valued at US$92,000. Club Chairman Luke Mnkandla will collect a Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD6 valued at US$80,500, while substantive CEO Denzil Mnkandla is earmarked for a Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD6 worth US$72,500.
Highlanders Legends Chairman and former Bosso talisman Madinda Ndlovu will also receive a Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD6 valued at US$72,500.
The vehicles, according to Chivayo, have been fully paid for and will be collected in Harare. In addition, each beneficiary travelling from Bulawayo will receive US$10,000 for fuel and pocket money. The club’s long-serving Curator, Jabulani Nkomo, will also receive US$10,000, plus an additional US$10,000 earmarked for his wife in recognition of her support.
Beyond the vehicles, Chivayo announced the immediate disbursement of the remaining US$500,000 from a pledge he made last year, bringing his total sponsorship package to US$1 million. He expressed hope that the funds would enable the club to sign new players and improve player welfare ahead of what he described as a potentially competitive 2026 Premier Soccer League season.
Chivayo, who has previously made headlines for donating vehicles and cash to musicians, church leaders and public officials, has in recent years positioned himself as a key private benefactor in Zimbabwean sport. His business dealings, however, have often attracted scrutiny, particularly around government-linked contracts in the energy sector.
Highlanders FC, founded in 1926 and based in Bulawayo, is one of Zimbabwe’s most decorated football institutions. Popularly known as Bosso, the club boasts a passionate fan base and a rich history that includes multiple league titles and domestic cup triumphs. In recent seasons, the club has been rebuilding both administratively and competitively as it seeks to reclaim its dominance in local football.
