Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Nkomo family has welcomed the landmark US$1 million sponsorship pledged to Highlanders FC, though Jabulani Nkomo, appointed to help manage the funds, says formal engagement with the club is still pending before any rollout can begin.
The package, announced by businessman Wicknell Chivayo on social media, includes an initial US$250 000 in cash, with the remainder to be disbursed over the coming year. It is dedicated to the memory of the late Vice-President John Landa Nkomo, a lifelong Highlanders supporter and Chivayo’s uncle.
Jabulani Nkomo, nominated to help oversee the sponsorship, expressed gratitude for the gesture but noted that discussions with the Highlanders leadership are yet to take place.
“We truly appreciate this gesture. However, as of now, I cannot comment any further as we are still to meet Highlanders. But we are truly grateful and appreciative. We will be commenting further after meeting Highlanders. For now, all I can say is we really appreciate it,” said Nkomo.
In announcing the sponsorship, Chivayo said the initiative was about honouring his uncle’s legacy and supporting a club that represents far more than just football.
“This is about honouring my uncle’s wishes and giving back to a community and a club that have shaped our national identity. Highlanders is more than a football club — it is a living symbol of heritage, unity, and pride for the people of Bulawayo and Zimbabwe at large,” he said.
Chivayo explained that the sponsorship is intended to bolster player welfare, strengthen club administration, and support recruitment for the 2025 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
“In recognition of my beloved uncle’s last wishes and my personal love for the game of football, it is my greatest pleasure to avail sponsorship worth US$250 000 in cash to Highlanders FC as my small token to assist the club in its various administrative requirements. This is just part of a broader sponsorship package of US$1 million.”
To ensure transparency and accountability, Chivayo appointed Jabulani Nkomo to act as curator of the funds. His role will involve working directly with the Highlanders executive on disbursement protocols..
“His involvement will only be to work closely with the leadership of Highlanders FC. Ensuring that the disbursement of this sponsorship is strictly in accordance with the club’s budgeted expenditures to support player welfare and strengthen administrative excellence,” Chivayo said.
Chivayo also referenced recent concerns about alleged financial mismanagement at the club, including a claim involving US$5 000, as part of the rationale for introducing checks and balances.
“I believe this will help to preserve the integrity of the club and promote its performance sustainably, for the love of the game. It is my humble conviction that there should be significant private-sector involvement in sports development to make a notable difference,” he said.
