Highlanders Snub Chivayo Offer, Name South African Thabo Senong As New Head Coach

Zimbabwe’s oldest football club, Highlanders, has named South African Thabo Senong as their new head coach.

The club confirmed the appointment in a statement on 4 January 2026. Senong will be assisted by former Highlanders striker Mkhokeli Dube. The statement reads:

“Highlanders Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Thabo Senong as the club’s new Head Coach, alongside the return of Mkhokheli Dube as Assistant Coach.

“Coach Senong brings a wealth of experience at elite level football, having worked with the South African Senior and Under-20 National Teams, the Lesotho Senior Men’s National Team, and achieved notable success at youth level, including winning the COSAFA Cup Under-20 tournament in 2013.

“His strong background in youth development, tactical organisation, and team building makes him a valuable addition to the Bosso technical team.

“Mkhokheli Dube returns to the club as a familiar and respected member of the Bosso family, having previously represented Highlanders as a player.

“His deep understanding of the club’s culture, values, and traditions, coupled with his passion and experience, will play a key role in supporting the technical team and motivating the squad both on and off the pitch.

“On behalf of the entire Highlanders FC family, the club warmly welcomes Coaches Thabo Senong and Mkhokheli Dube, and wishes them every success in their new roles.

“Further additions to the Technical team and playing staff will be announced in due course.”

Highlanders’ decision to appoint Senong goes against Wicknell Chivayo’s wish. On 1 December 2025, Chivayo had asked the club to consider former Warriors captain Benjani Mwaruwari as the new head coach.

Chivayo said that, on top of the US$1 million he has already given Highlanders, he would personally cover Benjani’s contract and benefits. He said the sponsorship money would still be available to help the team sign quality players for the 2026 Premier League season.

He added that if the club chooses a different coach, the US$1 million would still be used for the team, but he would not pay the coach’s salary or provide a car.

Highlanders thanked Chivayo for his offer but said they would follow their normal procedures when appointing technical staff.

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