Flamboyant Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, known for his lavish lifestyle and controversial business dealings, has been making headlines again, this time for his generous festive season spending spree in Victoria Falls and the revelation of his new romance.
While enjoying a holiday in Zimbabwe’s tourism capital with his girlfriend, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, Chivayo showered traditional dancers with US$100 notes each.
Zimbabwe’s own Santa Claus – Father Christmas – Wicknell Chivayo who makes his money from government’s usually corrupt tenders and contracts – sweeps through Victoria Falls, the country’s tourism Mecca in Matabeleland North province, during the ongoing festive season.
Traditional… pic.twitter.com/j0GCCrPeov— TheNewsHawks (@NewsHawksLive) December 29, 2024
These dancers, usually stationed at the Victoria Falls International Airport and around the town, received the unexpected windfall from Chivayo, who is no stranger to controversy. His wealth, largely attributed to government contracts often shrouded in allegations of corruption, has made him a prominent figure in Zimbabwean public life. He remains an ex-convict, convicted on corruption charges, despite his continued involvement in lucrative deals.
Chivayo initially teased his new romance on social media, posting pictures with a woman whose face was carefully concealed. He captioned one such image with a quote from Tupac Shakur’s iconic lyrics, famously used by Jay-Z and Beyoncé in their hit Bonnie and Clyde: “All I need in this life of sin is me and my girlfriend… Merry Christmas to you and your family from us… Much love from the biggest boss that you’ve seen thus far…”
The mystery deepened further with a photograph of personalised water bottles from their Matetsi Victoria Falls vacation. One bottle bore the name “Lulu,” sparking speculation about the identity of his new partner. Rumours initially circulated that his new love interest was Tanzanian socialite Lulu Edward.
Muteke, a model and influencer who has worked with brands such as Glow Envy Skincare, is reportedly close to the Chivayo family and a close friend of Moreblessings.
Chivayo’s actions, both his generous distribution of cash in Victoria Falls and his public display of affection for his new girlfriend, have once again placed him in the spotlight. His continued association with the ruling Zanu PF party and his willingness to distribute what many perceive as the proceeds of corruption remain controversial. While some Zanu PF-linked individuals and their supporters readily accept his largesse, others remain critical of his activities and the ethical implications of his wealth.
The ongoing debate surrounding Chivayo and his business practices continues to be a significant topic of discussion in Zimbabwe. His flamboyant lifestyle, coupled with his controversial past and present, ensures he remains a figure of considerable fascination and debate within the country.
