OnSport Reporter
The news that businessman Wicknell Chivayo gifted Highlanders FC $1 million has elicited mixed emotions within the Bosso family, with excitement being the predominant sentiment.
The donation comes at a time when Highlanders is struggling financially, a challenge that has plagued the club for several years. The lack of adequate income has left Bosso struggling to compete in the transfer market, losing talented players they’ve developed for free, while unable to bid for new players due to low salaries compared to emerging teams.
In recent years, the club has lost players like Mbongeni Ndlovu, Devine Mhindirira, Peter Muduhwa, and Lynoth Chikuhwa, among others, which has hindered their title aspirations. Chivayo’s gift is undoubtedly a godsend, but the big question now is how the money will be spent.
With competing demands, the executive will need to exercise wisdom to ensure the funds are utilized effectively and leave a lasting impact.
Acquiring players is a priority, as it’s crucial for Highlanders to compete in the Premier Soccer League and avoid being a punching bag, which has been the case in recent days.
As Bosso celebrates its centenary next year, rewarding excelling players will be vital in boosting fan morale during this milestone period.
The club’s infrastructure has suffered over the years, with funds being allocated primarily for operating expenses, wages, and match expenses. The prime club property, the Clubhouse, has been neglected, with a recent renovation focusing mainly on the bar.
The grounds, which are the backbone of any sports club, are in a sorry state. Fixing the irrigation system, laying lawn, and installing terraces should be top priorities at the Highlanders Clubhouse. A perimeter wall around the Clubhouse is also desperately needed.
The club’s guest house, often referred to as the “Hotel California,” could be turned into a viable guest house for camping purposes, helping to cut down on match preparation costs. While there may be a temptation to settle debts with this amount, it would be unwise, as there would be nothing to show for it in the future.
Highlanders needs revenue-generating projects that can provide regular income to meet running costs. The long-standing demand for branded products from fans could become a viable path to self-sufficiency.
Lower-priced branded products could appeal to a wide section of the club’s followers, and a portion of the funds could be used to kick-start the business, which, if well-managed, could plug some of the gaps that haunt the club.
For Highlanders fans, this gift should not just be used to address immediate needs but should bring about lasting changes that will be talked about for generations to come.
