HIGHLANDERS FC curator Jabu Nkomo has revealed that he has received a further US$300 000 from benefactor Sir Wicknell Chivayo, bringing the total amount received to date to approximately US$800 000.
The latest financial injection just a few days ago was announced following the official unveiling of a new team bus donated by Chivayo at a ceremony held at the club’s clubhouse yesterday. The event marked another milestone in what has been a transformative period for the Bulawayo giants, who are celebrating their centenary year.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by members of the club’s leadership, the technical team led by Benjani Mwaruwari, representatives from the Sport and Recreation Commission, and other invited guests.
The guest of honour was the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, who was represented by the director in her office, Morris Mbewe.
In his address, Mbewe expressed profound gratitude for Chivayo’s continued support of the club, particularly during such a historic year.
“We want to thank Chivayo for his support of this club, particularly in this year when the club turns 100 years,” said Mbewe.
Nkomo, speaking at the ceremony, hailed Chivayo’s unwavering commitment and used the occasion to appeal to other business leaders to follow suit.
“Chivayo has told me he will not stop supporting the club. My challenge is to other people to also offer a helping hand,” said Nkomo.
The newly unveiled bus was described as a major boost to the club’s operations, significantly improving the welfare and dignity of the players as they travel for matches across the country.
Highlanders’ president Dumisani Sandi whose speech was read on his behalf by board chairman Luke Mnkandla, described the donation as historic and symbolic of progress at the club.
“Today is not just a day of unveiling a bus. Today is a day of unveiling progress. This bus standing before us is more than metal, wheels and seats. It is a symbol. A symbol that Highlanders continues to move forward. A symbol that the legacy of this great institution — founded on pride, resilience and unity — continues to attract people who believe in its future,” said Mnkandla.
Sandi extended heartfelt appreciation to Chivayo on behalf of the entire Bosso family.
“On behalf of the Board, the Executive, the players and the entire Bosso family, we extend our deepest gratitude to our benefactor, Sir Wicknell Chivayo, for this remarkable donation. Sir, your gesture is not only appreciated, it is historic.”
“You have eased a burden that has weighed heavily on the club for years and restored a sense of dignity in how our team travels to represent this badge across the country.”
Emphasising the cultural significance of the club, Sandi said Highlanders represented more than just football.
“Highlanders is not an ordinary football club. We are a cultural institution. We are a symbol of identity. We are a fortress — Siyinqaba. And today, this fortress has been strengthened.”
He added that the bus would carry more than players from one venue to another.
“This bus will carry more than players. It will carry dreams. It will carry the hopes of thousands of supporters. It will carry the badge of Highlanders into every corner of Zimbabwe with pride and professionalism.”
Addressing the players and technical team, the president urged them to honour the trust placed in them.
“When you step into this bus, remember that you are not just going to a match. You are carrying the expectations of a community, the history of a people, and the responsibility to honour this great club.”
As Highlanders mark 100 years of existence, Chivayo’s continued financial backing has emerged as a defining pillar in the club’s renewed optimism, offering tangible support and reinforcing belief in a brighter future for one of Zimbabwe’s most storied football institutions.
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