Mnangagwa praises Chivayo's philanthropy

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has praised controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo for his philanthropic activities, urging the tycoon to continue giving to members of the community.

Speaking at an apostolic sect national event in Harare recently, Mnangagwa described Chivayo as a “giver" and commended him for his continued generosity.

“I appreciate the work being done by Chivayo in our community. He is a giver and continues to gift members of our community," Mnangagwa said.

“Stay in that lane and know that the more you give is the more you receive. Give and it shall be given to you."

Chivayo, who holds no formal government position, has become a prominent figure in Zimbabwean public life through his lavish lifestyle, high-profile relationships and frequent distribution of vehicles and large sums of money.

His close association with Mnangagwa has also attracted considerable attention. Chivayo has on several occasions been seen alongside the President, sometimes appearing to enjoy unusually close access to him despite not holding an official public office.

Questions have repeatedly been raised about the source of Chivayo's wealth, particularly against the backdrop of his extravagant spending on luxury vehicles, designer clothing, international holidays and, more recently, a Gulfstream private jet.

Mnangagwa has previously defended Chivayo as a philanthropist and challenged anyone with evidence linking him to criminal or corrupt activities to report the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) or the police.

Reports have previously indicated that ZACC had investigated Chivayo, although the status and outcome of any such investigations have remained the subject of public interest.

His growing prominence has also generated criticism given Zimbabwe's economic hardships, with many citizens struggling to survive on incomes that are a fraction of the amounts Chivayo routinely spends or distributes.

Chivayo's political connections extend beyond Zimbabwe. He has been seen in the company of several regional leaders, including presidents from South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia.

His influence has also occasionally been the subject of political criticism. Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga has previously referred to Chivayo as a “Chigananda", a term used in Zimbabwean political discourse to describe a corrupt or unscrupulous individual.

Mnangagwa's latest comments, however, represent a public endorsement of Chivayo's charitable activities and are likely to intensify debate over the businessman's growing visibility and access to Zimbabwe's political establishment.