Controversial businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo, popularly known as “Sir Wicknell,” has donated US$250,000 to Highlanders Football Club, commonly referred to as Bosso—one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most iconic football institutions. The generous contribution marks the first installment of a US$1 million sponsorship package Chivayo has pledged to distribute over the coming year to support the club’s resurgence ahead of the 2025 Premier Soccer League season.
The sponsorship, which will be disbursed in phases, is aimed at strengthening the club’s administrative structures, technical departments, and overall competitiveness. The initiative is expected to bring a significant financial boost to Highlanders, a team that has long struggled with resource constraints despite its historical significance and passionate fan base.Highlanders FC, founded in 1926 by Albert and Rhodes Khumalo—the grandsons of Ndebele monarch King Lobengula—is not only a football powerhouse in Zimbabwe but also a symbol of cultural identity, pride, and unity for Bulawayo and the nation at large. The club’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Zimbabwean sport, earning it unwavering support across generations.
Highlanders Land US$1M Sponsorship from Businessman Chivayo
Chivayo made the announcement on his social media platforms, where he frequently shares updates on his philanthropic activities and political endorsements. In a post that quickly went viral, he described Highlanders as a “phenomenal cultural icon” and a “national treasure that deserves the utmost support and recognition.”
“This heartfelt connection to the Bosso spirit reminded me of the deep bond between culture, football, and community,” Chivayo wrote. “Supporting Highlanders is not just about football—it’s about preserving a legacy and strengthening our national heritage.”
He also acknowledged the personal significance of the sponsorship, revealing that his affection for Highlanders dates back to his childhood. Chivayo shared that he was introduced to the club’s values and identity at a young age, a connection that has stayed with him throughout his life.
Notably, he credited the late Vice President John Landa Nkomo—his uncle and a respected national figure—with influencing his decision to support both Highlanders FC and the ruling ZANU-PF party. According to Chivayo, Nkomo often emphasized the importance of backing institutions that serve as pillars of national culture and identity.
“He always reminded me that Bosso is more than just a football team. It’s a movement, a reflection of the people, and a symbol of unity that must be protected and empowered,” Chivayo wrote.
The donation has sparked mixed reactions, with many Bosso supporters praising the gesture and expressing hope that the funds will be used responsibly to improve the team’s performance and infrastructure. Others, however, have voiced skepticism, pointing to Chivayo’s controversial business history and past involvement in state-linked contracts that have been criticized for lack of transparency.
Despite the debate, the Highlanders leadership has welcomed the support. Club officials stated that the donation comes at a crucial time, as the team seeks to rebuild and reassert its dominance in Zimbabwean football. The financial injection is expected to go toward player welfare, technical equipment, administrative costs, and youth development.
“We are grateful for this gesture and see it as an opportunity to realign our club with its founding vision,” said a Highlanders board member. “The sponsorship will help us strengthen our structures, retain top talent, and invest in our grassroots programs.”
Sports analysts have described the sponsorship as a potential game-changer—not just for Highlanders but for the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League as a whole. They argue that increased private sector involvement in local football could revitalize the sport, attract talent, and boost fan engagement.
“If more businesspeople follow Chivayo’s lead, we could see a renaissance in Zimbabwean football,” said one analyst. “But what’s equally important is ensuring that these sponsorships are transparent, accountable, and used in ways that genuinely benefit the clubs and communities.”
As Chivayo prepares to roll out the remaining US$750,000 in future installments, all eyes will be on Highlanders FC to see how the funds are managed and whether the investment will translate into success on and off the pitch.
