By Tapiwa Chawagarira
BULAWAYO — Highlanders Football Club has joined Zimbabwe in mourning prominent businessman and club benefactor Wicknell Chivhayo, who died on Wednesday in a helicopter crash at Kudenga Farm, near Marondera – about 88km from Harare.
Some of the victims have been identified as his wife, Lucy Chivhayo (née Muteke), Senelisiwe Magagula, Captain Kelvin T. Soda, and Captain Courage Mutavirirwa.
In a condolence message signed by club president Dumisani Sandi, Highlanders said the tragedy had left the Bosso family shocked and deeply saddened.
“Highlanders Football Club has learned with profound shock and deep sadness of the sudden passing of Chivhayo, Lucy Chivhayo, Magagula, Captain Soda, and Captain Mutavirirwa following the tragic helicopter crash in Marondera,” the club said.
Highlanders said the loss was particularly difficult to comprehend as it had communicated with Chivhayo only moments before the tragedy to express its appreciation for his support and friendship.
Chivhayo had established a close relationship with Highlanders over the past two years and became one of the club’s prominent benefactors during a period when the Bulawayo giants were working to strengthen their operations.
His support included financial assistance and the provision of a luxury team bus during Highlanders’ centenary year in 2026.
The businessman had committed more than US$1 million towards the club, while the team bus was intended to improve the team’s travelling conditions and enhance player welfare.
He had also publicly pledged further financial support towards Highlanders’ squad and technical department, including backing the appointment of former Warriors captain Benjani Mwaruwari as head coach.
Highlanders said Chivhayo’s contribution would form an important part of his legacy at the club.
“Mr Chivhayo leaves behind a legacy of generosity and a significant connection with Highlanders Football Club,” the club said, adding that his support during important moments in its journey would remain “deeply appreciated and remembered” by the Highlanders family.
The crash has triggered an outpouring of grief across Zimbabwe, with government officials, sporting bodies and members of the public extending condolences to the victims’ families.
Authorities are continuing their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash, while the formal identification process is also underway.
Highlanders extended its condolences to the families, friends, colleagues and associates of all those who died in the accident.
“At this very difficult moment, however, our thoughts are first and foremost with the loved ones of all those who lost their lives. We pray that they may find strength, comfort and courage in the days ahead. May their souls rest in eternal peace,” the club said.
