Let’s not mislead the nation, Wicknell Chivayo can never be described as a philanthropist

25.9.202517:10by Tendai Ruben MbofanaLet’s not mislead the nation, Wicknell Chivayo can never be described as a philanthropistNo matter how much lipstick you paint on a pig, it will never become a thing of beauty. No matter how much lipstick you paint on a pig, it will never become a thing of beauty. Of late, controversial tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has been described by some quarters as a philanthropist.

To directly receive articles from Tendai Ruben Mbofana, please join his WhatsApp Channel on:https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaqprWCIyPtRnKpkHe08 This chorus has been led predominantly by pro-Mnangagwa elements within the ruling ZANU-PF party, and of course President Emmerson Mnangagwa himself. The reason is simple: Chivayo has been on a much-publicised spree of gifts, handing out cars and cash to celebrities, gospel musicians, church leaders, and outstanding Mnangagwa praise-singers. For instance, he has gifted luxury vehicles to musicians like Jah Prayzah and Sulumani Chimbetu, lavished cars on high-profile pastors as the Charambas and Magayas, and rewarded personalities who have gone out of their way to glorify Mnangagwa in public.

He was even reported in June 2025 to have been named by a relatively unknown publication, Fortune Africa Magazine, in their “Giants of Generosity” list. The magazine claimed to recognise him for “philanthropic work, which includes donating millions of dollars, gifting luxury vehicles to various individuals, and providing support for churches, football teams, and other charitable causes across Africa.”