Harare: A flamboyant businessman in Zimbabwe has captured national attention with his extravagant displays of wealth, notably through the distribution of luxury cars and cash to individuals he considers patriotic. Wicknell Chivayo, known for his penchant for giving away cars such as Mercedes-Benzes, Toyota SUVs, and Range Rovers, has made headlines as he presents these gifts to music stars, footballers, church leaders, and loyal supporters of the ruling Zanu-PF party.
According to BBC, the 44-year-old tycoon, often seen in his white Rolls Royce, has become a symbol of Zimbabwe’s burgeoning “flex culture,” where showcasing wealth both in-person and online is increasingly popular. Chivayo’s generosity extends beyond vehicles; he has also provided houses and scholarships to followers of the Zion Christian Church. His social media presence highlights his global travels, business ventures, and connections with political figures across Africa, including Zimbabwe’s late President Robert Mugabe and current President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Chivayo’s business dealings have not been without controversy. In 2013, his company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, won a tender for a solar power plant that later faced fraud allegations. Although he was acquitted of all criminal charges, questions about his wealth and political connections persist. Chivayo has denied accusations of corruption, attributing his success to government tenders and partnerships in renewable energy and construction across Africa.
President Mnangagwa has dismissed claims that Chivayo acts as his frontman, and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission’s inquiry into his business dealings remains unresolved. Chivayo continues to reject allegations of misconduct, asserting that deepfake technology was responsible for a leaked audio implicating him in a separate scandal.
Despite the controversies, Chivayo remains focused on his business empire, recently acquiring a license for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service provider in Zimbabwe. His ambitions extend beyond wealth, as he aims to achieve billionaire status while maintaining his philanthropic image.
As Chivayo navigates the complexities of wealth and power, his actions and affiliations ensure he remains a focal point of intrigue and speculation in Zimbabwe. The businessman, who recently remarried in a lavish ceremony, insists he has no political aspirations, focusing instead on expanding his financial empire and countering criticism from detractors.