Prominent businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo has pledged a $10 million sponsorship to the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), contingent upon Nqobile Magwizi’s success in the ZIFA presidential election set for today.
As part of his commitment, Chivayo has also vowed to gift Magwizi a brand-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series, valued at $200,000, as a token of appreciation for taking on the leadership role, should he win.
Chivayo took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to underscore the significance of the election, stating:
“A defining chapter for Zimbabwean football is unfolding. Tomorrow, our nation’s football community faces a pivotal moment—the election of a new ZIFA President and Board. This event marks a critical turning point for the future of our beloved sport, which has long united Zimbabweans, inspiring pride and passion from all corners of the country.
“It’s time to transform ZIFA into an organization that prioritizes football development and drives commercial growth. We urgently need leadership that understands governance, accountability, and the business of sport. With vision, integrity, and professionalism, we can restore the glory of Zimbabwean football.”
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In advocating for Magwizi, Chivayo shared his reasons for support: “After careful consideration of the candidates, one name rises above the rest Nqobile Magwizi. He is a respected businessman with extensive expertise in finance, marketing, and sports management. His history of securing multi-million-dollar sponsorships for renowned clubs like Highlanders FC and Dynamos FC highlights his dedication and capability. We need this level of leadership to overcome past challenges and elevate ZIFA to new heights.”
If Magwizi is elected, Chivayo envisions a swift start, announcing plans to motivate the incoming ZIFA Board, Councillors, and leadership by providing new vehicles, details of which he promised to reveal in due course.
Additionally, Chivayo committed $10 million from his corporate social responsibility programs to support ZIFA’s operations, with a focus on grassroots football, administrative excellence, and commercialization strategies. He noted that further specifics would be outlined following Magwizi’s victory and the new Board’s inauguration.
Reflecting on his previous contributions, Chivayo remarked, “Back in 2015, I donated $1 million to ZIFA during my brother Philip Chiyangwa’s tenure. Now, I am ready to amplify that support by tenfold.”
In closing, he expressed his confidence in Magwizi: “Nqobile Magwizi possesses the integrity, experience, and drive needed to steer ZIFA toward excellence. As we anticipate this historic moment, I wish all candidates the best may the most deserving individual prevail.”
