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Welldone Ndlovu/Innocent Kurira, Sports Writers

BUSINESSMAN Wicknell Chivayo, has ridden to the rescue of Highlanders, offering to settle the debt that led to the club’s ban from Fifa.

Chivayo made the announcement on his X page, formerly Twitter, stating his intention to pay off the outstanding debt owed to former coach Baltemar Brito and his assistant coach Antonio Joao Torres.

Brito is owed US$14 778, with the debt accruing an additional US$237,71 in interest as of 17 October 2024, while Torres is owed US$11 788 plus interest of $193,74 as of the same date.

These owed funds, according to Bosso, were accumulated from winning bonuses, which are paid directly by the club, while the salaries are paid by sponsors Sakunda Holdings.

In his message, posted yesterday, Chivayo wrote: “Bosso ngenkani! iTeam yezwe lonke. Babethi ayibulawe, ayisoze ibulawe sikhona. I will gladly pay this outstanding debt directly to the former coach tomorrow without fail. Someone please inbox and share the banking details with the exact amount due ASAP.”

Highlanders Squad

Chivayo’s timely intervention has saved Highlanders from Fifa’s ban, which had prohibited the club from signing new players locally and internationally.

Bosso chairman Kenneth Mhlophe yesterday said he was touched by the support the club has received from individuals and sponsors following the announcement of a transfer ban on the club by Fifa.

“The support we have received from our sponsors and individuals has been overwhelming. This goes on to show how important this institution is to the people, not just as a football club but as a community pillar.

Kenneth Mhlophe

It has been heart-warming to see the outpouring of kindness and commitment from people who believe in this club. The journey is never easy, but together we will overcome,” said Mhlophe.

Fifa has indicated that the debts will accrue an interest of 5 percent per annum until Bosso settles their dues.
The coaches took their case to Fifa after unsuccessful attempts to engage with Highlanders, a matter that has dragged on since last year.

Mr Wicknell Chivayo

Highlanders were given a 45-day window to pay the Brazilian coaches, but unfortunately could not meet the deadline.
Mhlophe, acknowledging the club’s difficulties, expressed his confidence in overcoming the situation:

“The road ahead is challenging, but we are doing everything we can to ensure the debt is cleared and to rebuild. We remain thankful for every individual and sponsor who has stood by us in this tough moment. Their belief in Highlanders gives us the strength to keep pushing forward.”

For Bosso, who had been working on bolstering their squad after the departures of key players like Lynoth Chikuhwa, Godfrey Makaruse, Peter Muduhwa, and Marvelous Chigumira, the Fifa ban on registering new players could derail Zambian coach Kelvin Kaindu’s plans.

However, with support from their fans and sponsors, Mhlophe remains hopeful about the future.
“We will rise. This club has a heart and soul that cannot be extinguished, no matter the challenges we face. Next year we celebrate 100 years, and we strive to do better,” said Mhlophe.