Filthy rich businessman Wicknell Chivayo has once again made headlines, this time showering two Zimbabwean sporting icons with lavish gifts. Following his recent surprise presentation of brand new Toyota Fortuners to musicians Leonard Zhakata, Olivia Charamba, and Mechanic Manyeruke, Chivayo has now extended his generosity to football legend Moses “Bambo” Chunga and veteran ZBC sports commentator Charles “CNN” Mabika.
In a statement released earlier today, Chivayo detailed his reasons for the gifts, highlighting the significant contributions both men have made to Zimbabwean football. He expressed his deep admiration for their impact on the nation’s sporting landscape and the inspiration they have provided to countless fans.
Regarding Moses Chunga, Chivayo’s statement read: “Today I am turning the spotlight onto two phenomenal individuals that I respect, who are LEGENDS in Zimbabwean football, my personal HEROES and as well my good old FRIENDS. These men have shaped the face of our NATIONAL SPORT and inspired millions of football lovers, with their UNMATCHED talent, dedication and passion for the game. One is the undisputed MAESTRO of Zimbabwean football – made history with his trailblazing debut in BELGIUM, becoming one of the first Zimbabwean players to showcase his talent on the INTERNATIONAL stage. His brilliance on the pitch brought GLAMOUR and STYLE to Dynamos Football Club, the “GLAMOUR BOYS.” As a young boy, watching him play was nothing short of mesmerizing. His CREATIVITY, VISION, and TECHNICAL SKILL were in a league of their own. Chunga didn’t just play football, he REDEFINED it and his legacy is worth an appropriate recognition.”
Chivayo’s tribute to Charles Mabika was equally effusive, praising the commentator’s extensive knowledge and captivating style: “The other one is the VOICE of Zimbabwean football and is in a class of his own. His unmatched COMMENTARY and encyclopaedic KNOWLEDGE of the sport has made him a living LEGEND.” He continued, recalling his childhood memories: “I remember growing up in the dusty streets of Chitungwiza, I used to imitate his ICONIC voice tichitamba chikweshe mu ghetto. CNN’s commentary turned even the simplest match into a GRAND SPECTACLE. You could literally “WATCH” a football game, yet listening to his commentary on Radio 2 back in the day. He made football not just a sport but a VIBRANT EXPERIENCE that united people from all walks of life.”
Chivayo’s gesture is undeniably generous. He concluded his statement with a direct instruction to the recipients and a clear indication of the value of his gift: “On account of their prestigious contribution to Zimbabwean football, I wish to say a big congratulations to MOSES “BAMBO” CHUNGA and CHARLES “CNN” MABIKA. Please go to FARAMATSI MOTORS, Club Chambers showroom at Corner 3rd Street and Nelson Mandela Avenue and see MR REEVES. Your two brand SPANKING new 2024 Toyota Fortuner F24A 2.4D 4×4 Automatic are ready for collection. This is USD151 ,000 well spent WHOLE HEARTEDLY for a DESERVING football duo !!!! This is my SMALL gesture of saying THANK YOU for inspiring not just ME but an ENTIRE nation of football lovers. THANK YOU for turning every goal, every tackle, and every victory into UNFORGETTABLE moments of pure magic. LEGENDS like you deserve nothing less than LEGENDARY RECOGNITION.”
This latest act of philanthropy from Chivayo, whose source of wealth remains a subject of much speculation, follows closely on the heels of his gifts to the musicians. The timing and scale of these gestures have once again placed the businessman firmly in the public eye, sparking debate and discussion across the country.
