Harare: A flamboyant businessman in Zimbabwe, Wicknell Chivayo, has captured the attention of the nation by giving away luxury cars and large sums of cash to individuals he considers patriotic. This unusual practice has sparked a range of reactions, with some people enchanted and others concerned about his motives.
According to BBC, Chivayo’s preferred vehicles for these giveaways include Mercedes-Benzes, Toyota SUVs, and Range Rovers. His recipients range from prominent music stars to struggling gospel singers, footballers, church leaders, and loyalists of the ruling Zanu-PF party. The 44-year-old, who is known for his love of a white Rolls Royce, also has a fleet of personalized luxury cars, some of which he has given away as he acquires newer models.
Chivayo’s generosity extends beyond cars. He has given houses and study scholarships to followers of his apostolic church, the Zion Christian Church. His actions have been widely discussed on social media, with Zanu-PF accounts praising his philanthropy. Despite being media-shy, Chivayo has openly displayed his wealth on social media platforms, often posting about his lavish lifestyle and business endeavors.
Chivayo’s business ventures have been a subject of scrutiny. His company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, won a tender to build a solar power plant but later became entangled in fraud allegations. Although he was later acquitted of criminal charges, the controversy surrounding his business dealings persists. The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) launched an inquiry into his activities, but no charges have been filed.
Chivayo has denied any involvement in corruption, attributing his success to his hard work and government tenders secured with foreign partners. Despite allegations and controversies, he remains a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s business landscape, leveraging his close ties to political power.
While some view him as a symbol of economic empowerment, others are skeptical of his methods and connections. Chivayo insists that his focus is on financial success rather than politics, and he continues to flaunt his wealth and influence, undeterred by criticism.