Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has ignited a national conversation following revelations of a lavish spending spree exceeding US$9.3 million on luxury cars and opulent gifts since January 2024, The Standard has reported.
An investigation by Truth Diggers, the investigative journalism unit of Alpha Media Holdings (publishers of The Standard, Zimbabwe Independent, Southern Eye, NewsDay, and owners of HStv), meticulously tracked Chivayo’s donations, revealing a pattern of extravagant generosity in a nation grappling with economic hardship.
The beneficiaries of Chivayo’s largesse represent a diverse cross-section of Zimbabwean society: musicians, comedians, footballers, Zanu PF activists, and leaders of the Johanne Masowe eChishanu church. The gifts include a range of top-of-the-line vehicles – Mercedes Benz, Toyota Fortuners, Ford Rangers, Toyota Land Cruisers, and Lexuses – alongside sprawling mansions.
Even journalists were included, with Capitalk Radio presenters Tinashe Chikuse and Phathisani Sibanda receiving luxury cars. The most common gift, however, was the Toyota Aqua, so prevalent that a social media joke emerged suggesting that any parked Aqua was likely one of Chivayo’s gifts.
The price tags on these gifts varied considerably, ranging from US$28,000 to a staggering US$180,000, highlighting the opulent nature of Chivayo’s generosity. Truth Diggers’ investigation estimates that nearly US$3 million went to the Johanne Masowe eChishanu church, while musicians received approximately US$1.9 million in vehicles.
Jah Prayzah also received US$20,000 in cash. His subsequent effusive public praise for Chivayo sparked significant online debate, with some praising the gesture while others criticised it as “bootlicking.”
Jah Prayzah is not alone in facing criticism. Gospel musicians Olivia and Charles Charamba also received a car from Chivayo, prompting criticism for seemingly contradicting their past sermons on avoiding questionable donations. Similarly, Leonard Zhakata and Peter Ndlovu faced public backlash for accepting gifts, with some viewing the acceptance as an endorsement of Chivayo.
Bulawayo mayor David Coltart publicly expressed his disappointment with Peter Ndlovu on X, stating, “I am sad to see Peter Ndlovu sully his fine name in this way.” He emphasised the responsibility of celebrities to question the source of such extravagant gifts.
Chivayo’s generosity extends beyond individuals. The Zion Christian Church received a significant donation of US$1 million from Chivayo, given to church leader Nehemiah Mutendi. This substantial donation, like others, has attracted both admiration and scrutiny regarding Chivayo’s motives.
However, not all have accepted Chivayo’s offers. Thomas Mapfumo, a renowned musician, publicly declined a house and car, citing concerns about the source of Chivayo’s wealth. Mapfumo’s refusal is seen as a principled stand, highlighting the importance of artistic integrity and independence in the face of such generous, yet potentially problematic, offers.
Chivayo typically announces his donations on social media, often accompanied by photos and videos, further amplifying the public attention surrounding his actions. The sheer scale of his spending and the diverse range of recipients have raised significant questions about the source of his wealth and the implications of his generosity within Zimbabwe’s challenging economic climate. The debate continues to rage, highlighting the complex interplay between philanthropy, celebrity, and public perception in the country.
