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Fungai Muderere
Highlanders chairman Kenneth Mhlophe, has revealed that the club’s original carwash investor left without informing the club, leaving the employees to continue operating the business until the executive stepped in to manage it.
The Bosso carwash venture is one of the revenue streams for the Bulawayo football giants.
“The original investor left without the club knowing and for a while, the car wash employees remained.
Upon further investigation, the executive resolved to run the venture themselves for the club. However, at that point, the club was not ready, so it was resolved to temporarily allow the employees to operate it while remitting US$200 per month,” said Mhlophe.
Last year, the car wash business at the Highlanders clubhouse contributed only US$50 to the club’s coffers for the entire year, as revealed by financial statements presented by club treasurer, Israel Moyo, at an annual general meeting (AGM).
Bosso members attending the AGM were stunned that a business operating daily at the Highlanders clubhouse had generated such minimal revenue.
Car wash services at the facility include body wash, interior and exterior wipe down, interior vacuum, tyre shine, dashboard polish, engine wash and body waxing, among others. The individual reportedly running the car wash business last year was identified as Clifford Ncube.
Mhlophe also disclosed that the sports club, which operates under a consultancy arrangement with local club member Phathisani Nkomo, is due for review.
“This consultancy arrangement has been in place since early 2023 and is set for review,” said Mhlophe, adding that, like the main clubhouse, the kitchen operations are also under review.
A profit-sharing model for the sports club’s management is expected to significantly benefit Bosso, as the venue frequently attracts large crowds, especially after the club’s home games. The club’s strength lies in its extensive membership and fan base.
“Our members continue to organise themselves into various chapters, primarily influenced by geographical locations in cities, towns, or countries. The unifying factor remains Highlanders. It is my hope that, in the near future, our diaspora membership will connect and participate in these gatherings through virtual means,” said Mhlophe.
