Chivayo begs Mambo Dhuterere to reunite with wife

Controversial businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has made a dramatic intervention in gospel musician Mambo Dhuterere's public marital fallout, offering emotional counsel and lavish gifts in a bid to reunite the singer with his estranged wife, Dorcas Vambe, popularly known as Mai Dhuterere.

In a heartfelt post shared on his verified social media platform on Friday, Chivayo praised the couple's role in gospel music while urging them to reconcile for the sake of their children and the broader church community that looks up to them as role models.

"She has stood by you from Day 1, contributed to your music and mission, and I recognise her as an integral part of your success," Chivayo wrote. "From the depths of my heart, I urge you to find your way back to each other in full love and unity… for the sake of your beautiful children… and for the sake of the Kingdom of God, which is glorified when you stand together as a family."

To back up his plea, Chivayo announced a grand gesture of support: a pair of brand-new white Toyota Fortuner SUVs  -  one each for Mambo Dhuterere and Mai Dhuterere  -  along with US$150,000 in cash. Mambo is set to receive US$50,000, while Mai Dhuterere will get a substantial US$100,000.

"Both your brand spanking new white Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD6 are ready for collection," he wrote. "Please spare time and come and see me TOGETHER and collect USD $50,000 for you Mambo Dhuterere, and USD $100,000 for you Amai Dhuterere."

Chivayo also addressed previous speculation about why Mambo Dhuterere had not received a vehicle from him sooner, saying he had respected the artist's earlier comments that he was not eager to receive one.

The intervention follows mounting media reports that Mambo Dhuterere left his pregnant wife in the wake of her being charged with fraud over a US$16,000 botched vehicle deal. The charges reportedly involve her and her brother. The couple, once celebrated as a power duo in Zimbabwe's gospel scene, is said to have been living apart, with sources claiming the singer left suddenly, citing the pregnancy as a sign of bad luck.

"He accused her of bringing bad luck  -  even blaming her for why he didn't get a car from Chivayo. Now their eldest child is being dragged into this and it's unfair," a family insider told H-Metro. The same source alleged that Mambo Dhuterere had once adopted one of Mai Dhuterere's children from a previous relationship but had now distanced himself from the child.

Drawing from his own experience, Chivayo said that although his own marriage had broken down irretrievably, he still maintains a respectful relationship with the mother of his children and co-parents effectively.

"You still have the chance to save what is precious. Be the example… Even if clouds gather, zuva richabuda chete (the sun will shine again)," he added, concluding with a prayer for healing and reconciliation.

Whether Chivayo's emotional and financial appeal will sway the gospel star remains to be seen, but the gesture has sparked renewed public interest in the couple's tumultuous journey, with many fans now hoping that the gospel duo can find their way back to each other  -  and back to the pulpit as one.