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IsiJahunda: Death of a language, people

by Staff reporter
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Enzo Ishall gets Chivayo Christmas gift
Zimbabwean Zimdancehall artist Stephen Kudzanai Mamhare, better known as Enzo Ishall, has been gifted a US$145,000 2023 Mercedes Benz GLE 400 by local businessman and tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo. The lavish gift, presented yesterday, comes at a time when Chivayo remains at the center of public attention for his links to the controversial US$100 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender, which has raised eyebrows over allegations of corruption.

Chivayo, known for securing lucrative state tenders and contracts, is said to leverage his strong political connections, particularly his reported close ties with President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Chivayo has repeatedly boasted about his influence, claiming that the president is firmly under his control, a statement that has fueled further scrutiny regarding his business dealings.

The businessman, often referred to as a "wheeler-dealer," is not new to controversy, having secured multiple multi-million-dollar tenders through his political connections. His actions have drawn criticism due to the perceived links between his wealth and the corrupt practices embedded within Zimbabwe’s political and economic systems.

Over the years, Chivayo has become known for his extravagant donations, gifting cars, cash, and other luxury items to a variety of public figures, including musicians, artists, social influencers, footballers, and professionals. Estimates suggest that the total value of his donations now stands at approximately US$5 million.

However, critics argue that these charitable gestures serve a more strategic purpose than mere philanthropy. Chivayo's donations are widely seen as a display of his power and wealth, designed to enhance his public image and secure political support for Zanu PF, the ruling party. By aligning himself with influential figures in the entertainment and sports industries, Chivayo appears to be attempting to buy loyalty and reinforce his political agenda.

Chivayo has made no secret of his intention to link his donations to Zanu PF, with some recipients fully aware that the funds and gifts they receive are proceeds of corruption. While they may benefit materially from these acts of generosity, critics point out that they are complicit in sustaining a system that has caused significant economic hardship for the majority of Zimbabweans, particularly the poor and vulnerable.

For many, Chivayo's actions symbolize a broader issue of corruption within Zimbabwe’s political and business elites, a cycle that has contributed to the country's ongoing economic struggles. As the controversy surrounding his wealth and connections continues to unfold, questions remain about the true cost of such ostentatious displays of wealth and the long-term impact on Zimbabwe’s development and social fabric.

Source - online