By Takudziridzwa Nyama
At a time when corporate support for sport has been hard to come by in the country, controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo and prominent gold dealer Scott Sakupwanya have jointly rewarded US$250,000 to the Zimbabwe national football team, the Warriors in recognition of their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals set for Morocco next year.
Chivayo is a highly controversial figure known for his well-paid business dealings largely through state tenders and contracts and Sakupwanya is the owner of Scottland Football Club, Member of Parliament and a prominent gold dealer.
Chivayo posted on his X page yesterday, announcing that the donation would be officially handed over to the Warriors next week once he returned from France.
“In line with the President’s mantra of “LEAVING NO ONE AND NO PLACE BEHIND” and in unwavering support of local sports, HON. SCOTT SAKUPWANYA and I are proud to announce a small donation of USD250, 000 to the Warriors,” said Chivayo.
He further added that “This gesture serves as a token of appreciation for their exceptional achievement in raising Zimbabwe’s flag high on the continental stage. Upon our return from Paris next week and after all required protocols have been observed through the MINISTRY OF SPORTS, we will officially hand over this contribution for the team’s collective benefit,” he added.
“We applaud the second republic for its steadfast commitment to sports development and its recognition of excellence in Zimbabwe’s athletes.”