Wicknell Chivayo
Wicknell Chivayo is a controversial Zimbabwean businessman known for his involvement in government tenders, flamboyant lifestyle, and close associations with the ruling ZANU–PF party. He has garnered both admiration and criticism for his lavish spending and philanthropic gestures, often intertwined with political undertones.
Early life and education
Chivayo was born in Harare, Zimbabwe. Details about his early life and education remain limited in public records.Career and business ventures
Chivayo is the founder and CEO of Intratrek Zimbabwe, a company that has secured several government contracts, notably in the energy sector. One of the most prominent is the Gwanda Solar Project, valued at approximately US$173 million. Despite receiving substantial payments, the project has faced delays and controversies regarding its execution. In 2025, the government announced plans to revive the project, with Energy Minister July Moyo stating that new parameters had been set following the conclusion of legal proceedings.Philanthropy and public gifting
Chivayo has made headlines for his extravagant gifts to various individuals, including musicians, journalists, and religious leaders. Notably, in May 2025, he gifted veteran broadcaster Reuben Barwe a brand-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser VXR LX 300 Series and US$100,000 in cash. His generosity extends to the arts, with musician Jah Prayzah reportedly receiving gifts totaling nearly US$1 million, including luxury vehicles and cash. In May 2025, Chivayo gifted Jah Prayzah a 2025 Range Rover Autobiography and US$150,000 in cash to celebrate the launch of the artist's album "Ndini Mukudzei."Political affiliations
Chivayo is a known supporter of the ZANU–PF party and President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He has publicly endorsed calls for Mnangagwa to extend his presidency beyond the constitutional term limits, a stance that has intensified factional debates within the party. His close relationship with the president has been a point of contention, with some party members expressing concern over Chivayo's influence and the implications for internal party dynamics. In January 2025, Chivayo publicly criticized Acting President Constantino Chiwenga, describing him as a "failed politician," following Chiwenga's remarks on corruption within the party.Sports sponsorships
Chivayo purportedly sponsored 2025 Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League champions Scottland to the amount of US$1 million.Prior to the start of the 2026 Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, Chivayo injected US$585,000 into Highlanders.
Controversies
Chivayo's wealth and spending habits have been subjects of public debate. Investigations have revealed that he spent over US$9.3 million on luxury cars and gifts within a 12-month period, raising questions about the sources of his income and the transparency of government contracts awarded to his companies. In 2025, he faced backlash for allegedly attempting to influence the Zimbabwe Football Association elections by promising vehicles and financial incentives to voters, an act perceived by many as vote-buying. Chivayo denied the allegations, stating that his support for ZIFA was independent and not politically motivated.Personal life
In 2017, Chivayo married Sonja Madzikanda, reportedly paying a bride price of US$50,000. The wedding was attended by notable figures, including musician Oliver Mtukudzi, who performed at the ceremony. In 2018, Chivayo publicly shared DNA test results to confirm paternity of his son, John Chenjera-Chivayo. In 2024, Chivayo and Madzikanda divorced after seven years of marriage. Chivayo cited irreconcilable differences, particularly tensions between Madzikanda and his family, as the primary reason for the separation. Despite the divorce, he stated that he continues to support his ex-wife and their children.In March 2025, Chivayo married Lucy "Lulu" Muteke, with whom he had been in a relationship since late 2024. The couple held both traditional and religious wedding ceremonies, including a celebration within the Johane Masowe Echishanu congregation. The wedding was attended by over 15,000 guests and featured performances by artists such as Jah Prayzah and Killer T. Following their wedding, the couple embarked on a lavish honeymoon at the Masai Mara lodges in Kenya, indulging in gourmet meals, private game drives, and helicopter rides over the Mara plains.