Chivayo gives away $1,8 million in cash to his church members

Wicknell Chivayo, the flamboyant Zanu-PF donor and Intratrek Zimbabwe CEO, has announced a $1,8 million giveaway to members of his church, Johanne Masowe, in Marondera.

Writing on social media on Tuesday, Chivayo said that each of the 6,000 members would receive $300 in cash along with two hampers as a "Christmas present."

The 45-year-old businessman, known for his luxury lifestyle - including a Rolls Royce - and for amassing personal wealth through state contracts, had previously donated over 100 Toyota Aqua vehicles to members of the same church last year.

This latest giveaway adds to a long list of high-profile donations Chivayo has made this year to influencers, musicians, comedians, church leaders, and Zanu-PF politicians. Estimates suggest that the publicly disclosed donations exceed $75 million.

Chivayo's philanthropic activities have sparked controversy in the past. Last week, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) announced it was dropping its investigation into him over alleged corruption in connection with a $100 million tender awarded to South African company Ren-Form CC to supply election materials for the 2023 elections. ZACC said it found no evidence linking Chivayo to the contract, a decision criticised by transparency advocates.

Chivayo is regarded as one of Zanu-PF's biggest donors and is often seen in the company of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The President has defended the businessman, describing him as a "philanthropist" and denying claims that he is being used as a front to buy political influence.