By Marcus Chimudzi
HARARE — Prominent businessman and philanthropist Sir Wicknell Chivhayo has gifted Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Nqobile Magwizi a 2026 Range Rover Sport D350 Autobiography Limited Edition, in what he says is part of his broader investment in sports, arts and recreation in Zimbabwe.
The luxury vehicle, valued at approximately US$250,000, was presented to Magwizi weeks after his election as ZIFA president. Chivhayo said the gesture was meant to support and encourage leadership that prioritises accountability, professionalism and the restoration of integrity in Zimbabwean football administration.
Magwizi has moved quickly to restructure ZIFA’s administrative systems, including the reconstitution of the Secretariat, the reactivation of governance frameworks and the professional realignment of operational departments, as the association seeks to stabilise after years of institutional challenges.
The developments come in the wake of Zimbabwe’s participation at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals held in Morocco, where the Warriors were eliminated at the group stage.
While Zimbabwe’s campaign was short-lived, ZIFA confirmed that the national team was fully funded and adequately catered for throughout the tournament. Unlike previous AFCON appearances, there were no public reports of unpaid allowances, poor accommodation or logistical disputes involving the players.
On the field, the Warriors struggled to translate effort into results and failed to secure progression beyond the group phase. Football analysts, however, noted improved organisation and commitment from the squad despite the early exit.
Chivhayo, who has increasingly positioned himself as a key private-sector supporter of national development initiatives, said his involvement in sport, arts and recreation is aimed at complementing institutional efforts and promoting national unity through culture and athletics.
ZIFA has welcomed private-sector support, stating that partnerships with investors and benefactors remain critical to the sustainable development of football and other sporting disciplines in Zimbabwe.
