MBABANE – Eswatini international Kwakhe Thwala’s Scottland FC has been plunged into deep mourning following the death of major benefactor Wicknell Chivayo in a helicopter crash.
Chivayo died on Wednesday alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four others, leaving a massive void at the club where he was a primary financial backer. The philanthropist was the financial heartbeat of the Zimbabwean outfit, generously funding the club with significant cash injections and high-profile winning bonuses. Following their domestic success, Chivayo reportedly injected around US$1 million (over E16 million) to support Scottland FC. Eswatini football fans will vividly recall Chivayo’s unmatched generosity during Scottland’s continental clashes against Eswatini champions Nsingizini Hotspurs. He famously gifted the team and technical staff US$100 000 (over E1.6 million) in cash after their 1–0 first-leg victory over Nsingizini in September. He later added another US$50 000 (over E821 000) when the team advanced to the next round. Chivayo routinely promised massive financial incentives for upcoming domestic and continental matches, including a pledged US$50 000 per win in the CAF Champions League.
In an official statement, the club expressed profound grief over the sudden tragedy.
“It is with profound shock and heavy hearts that Honourable Pedzai ‘Scott’ Sakupwanya and the entire Scottland family learn of the tragic passing of club sponsor, Sir Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and four others in a helicopter crash,” the statement read.
“Beyond the sponsorship, Sir Wicknell believed in our dreams, stood by us through every triumph and challenge, and became an invaluable part of the Scottland FC family. “The void left by this sudden demise is huge, not only for Scottland FC, but for everyone whose lives were touched by his generosity. At this exceptionally difficult time, our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies go out to the bereaved families, friends and colleagues at IMC. May you find strength, comfort and peace in the wonderful memories they leave behind.”
Meanwhile, Thwala officially joined the Zimbabwean Premier Soccer League side on 19 January 19, 2026, completing his transfer from MTN Premier League side Nsingizini Hotspurs. He signed a two-year deal with Scottland FC and the move was valued at approximately E823 000. Thwala marked his official competitive debut for Scottland FC by helping them secure the Castle Lager Challenge Cup in early 2026, featuring in a 5–0 victory over Dynamos FC at Rufaro Stadium.
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