Bosso secure US$300 000 deal

Highlanders Football Club received a much-needed financial boost yesterday when King's Bullion unveiled a renewable US$300,000 sponsorship package for the year, effectively averting a looming crisis.

The deal was officially announced at a brief ceremony held in Bulawayo last night, attended by the club's executive members, board representatives, technical staff, team captains, and secretariat.

For Highlanders, this intervention comes at a critical time, as players, the secretariat, and the technical team had yet to receive their January and some December salaries. With the team preparing to travel to Ngezi for their match against league newcomers MWOS at Baobab Stadium on Sunday, the financial injection offers much-needed stability.

Club spokesperson Nozibelo Maphosa confirmed the sponsorship, stating: "Our sponsors are King's Bullion. They have provided us with US$300,000, and there is a possibility of renewal at the end of the season."

King's Bullion CEO Fradreck Kunaka officially presented the cheque to Highlanders CEO Ronald Moyo, marking his first major sponsorship deal in that position. Kunaka, accompanied by Chief Operating Officer Nyasha Hamadziripi, emphasized the company's commitment to ongoing support.

"The sponsorship is renewable, and we will review it as we continue doing business while exploring programs that benefit players," said Kunaka.

Fan Backlash Over Club's Public Appeal for Donations

The sponsorship announcement follows a wave of criticism from Highlanders supporters after the club publicly solicited donations earlier in the week. On Tuesday, the club issued an appeal urging fans to contribute via an online platform.

"IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT, BALANDELI BE BOSSO! We have an exciting update for you! You can now support your beloved Highlanders FC from ANYWHERE in the world! Click the link (https://highlandersfc.co.zw/donations/) to donate and be part of our journey to greatness!" the club's statement read.

Fans, however, took to social media to express their displeasure, questioning the club's financial management and suggesting alternative revenue-generation strategies.

Khulekani Mazibuko Hlambelo remarked: "Yes, we understand donations, but why not leverage the vast network of Highlanders supporters around the globe by making membership accessible online? You could use this online donation platform as a membership registration vehicle."

Norbert Muleya echoed similar sentiments: "A big club like Highlanders should not be asking for donations all the time. Provide a digital membership platform for Bosso fans to join from anywhere in the world. That's a low-hanging fruit."

Others, like Brown Fush, were more direct in their criticism: "You've now normalized mediocrity. Bosso is a big brand and could make millions of dollars if competent people were in charge."

Meanwhile, Xoilsani Moyo expressed frustration with the club's approach: "Other teams are coming up with packages to entice membership, while we're sending out a begging bowl. Surely, we can do better than this."

Patrick Ndlovu raised concerns over financial transparency: "You want our donations, but you hide debts from the AGM. The accounting for funds has been terrible."

Despite the backlash, the King's Bullion sponsorship offers Highlanders a chance to stabilize their financial standing and focus on performance. However, the ongoing concerns from fans highlight the need for the club to adopt sustainable financial strategies moving forward.