Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AFTER three matches without a win, Highlanders head into Sunday’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash with GreenFuel at Barbourfields searching for more than just goals, they’re chasing a turning point.
And thanks to Harare businessman Wicknell Chivayo, that moment might just arrive.
The cash-strapped Bulawayo giants have cleared US$57 000 in outstanding winning bonuses and signing-on fees owed to players and the technical team, using the first tranche of Chivayo’s US$1 million package for Bosso.
This enabled Highlanders to clear arrears cover commitments from both the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Jabulani Nkomo, appointed as curator of Chivayo’s funds, confirmed the payments and said this marked a critical step in bringing stability at the club.
“We’re here to make Bosso a better team,” Nkomo said.
“Whatever we do must align with Chivayo’s aspirations for the club. One million is a lot of money, and we must use it wisely.
“We’ve achieved the first step, clearing player bonuses worth US$57 000. That’s done.
“From here, we’ll keep updating on our progress.”
But the financial windfall goes beyond just debt clearance.
Nkomo added that the construction will soon begin on a long-promised perimeter wall around the Highlanders clubhouse, an 800-meter project first proposed during the tenure of the late club CEO Ndumiso Gumede.
“When Gumede was alive, we agreed to build a three-metre wall around the clubhouse,” Nkomo said.
“The project stalled, but now, with this funding, we’ll finish what we started. I spoke to Chairman Kenneth Mhlophe and got the green light to seek help from Chivayo.
“The result? We now have support for the wall and for the club as a whole.”
Nkomo stressed that accountability will be key.
“I don’t handle the money and won’t keep it. We’ve opened a trust account, and I don’t even sign on transactions. I only authorise requests. The process is overseen by accountants and lawyers whom Chivayo trusts.”
Club chairman Mhlophe admitted the financial relief had brought him peace of mind.
“Nkomo had long wanted to build the durawall and approached Sir (Chivayo) for assistance,” he said.
“Not only did he offer funds for the wall, but also for Highlanders as a club. I’m very grateful to both men.”
The cash injection has already lifted spirits in the dressing room.
Interim head coach Try Ncube welcomed the gesture, saying it would spur players on ahead of Sunday’s assignment.
“We’re grateful for the help from Chivayo.
“I’m sure this will motivate the boys to give their best on the field,” Ncube said.
His assistant and former Warriors striker Agent Sawu also expressed gratitude.
“If the players are motivated, results will come. We’re all thankful.”
Veteran goalkeeper Ariel Sibanda, one of the most respected voices in the squad, also shared his appreciation.
“Firstly, I’d like to thank the club, without it, we wouldn’t be here.
“I’d also like to thank Chivayo and Nkomo. The boys are really motivated. We’d love for Sir Chivayo to come watch us at Barbourfields and see how we play,” said Sibanda.
The funding package was first announced on social media, with an immediate injection of US$250 000.
The full US$1 million sponsorship will be rolled out in stages over the next 12 months.
In announcing the package, Chivayo said the donation is dedicated to the memory of his uncle, the late Vice President John Landa Nkomo, a lifelong Highlanders supporter.
Whether the money can end Bosso’s scoring drought remains to be seen, but it’s clear that morale has already taken a turn for the better in the dressing room.
Fixtures
Saturday: Herentals v Simba Bhora (Rufaro),
TelOne v Dynamos (Ascot), ZPC Kariba v Manica Diamonds (Nyamhunga), FC Platinum v Chicken Inn (Mandava), Yadah Stars v MWOS (Heart Stadium), Bikita Minerals v Kwekwe United (Gibbo), Ngezi Platinum Stars v Scottland (Baobab)
Sunday: Highlanders v GreenFuel (Barbourfields),
CAPS United v Triangle United (Rufaro)
