Meet Wicknell Chivayo: The Zimbabwean Millionaire Dishing Free Cars ( R170 Million) Like Lollipops
In a nation often beset by economic challenges, Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has emerged as a figure of both admiration and controversy. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle and unparalleled generosity, Chivayo has, over the past years, donated luxury vehicles and substantial cash amounts to a diverse group of individuals, including celebrities, politicians, influencers, and clergy members. His philanthropic endeavors are estimated to have exceeded US$9.3 million in the past year alone.
Chivayo’s benevolence has profoundly impacted Zimbabwe’s arts sector. In November 2024, he honored three iconic musicians—Mechanic Manyeruke, Olivia Charamba, and Leonard Karikoga Zhakata—by gifting each a brand-new Toyota Fortuner. This gesture was a tribute to the solace their music provided during his family’s challenging times.
Continuing his support for artists, Chivayo presented a Mercedes-Benz GLE350d 4Matic to celebrated musician Tocky Vibes in January 2025, acknowledging his significant impact on Zimbabwean culture.
Demonstrating his commitment to faith communities, Chivayo made headlines in early 2024 by purchasing over 50 cars for his fellow congregants of an apostolic sect, showcasing his dedication to uplifting those around him.
In June 2023, he donated a brand-new Toyota Hilux D4D vehicle, a home solar system, and US$100,000 in cash to the Sacred Heart Small Christian Community at St. Gerard’s Roman Catholic Church in Greystone Park, Harare, in memory of his late mother.
While many laud Chivayo’s generosity, his actions have not been without controversy. Questions have arisen regarding the sources of his wealth, especially given his company’s involvement in high-profile projects like the Gwanda Solar Project, which remains incomplete.
Despite the debates surrounding his fortune, Chivayo’s philanthropic endeavors have undeniably left an indelible mark on Zimbabwean society. His lavish gifts have transformed lives, sparked conversations, and positioned him as a central figure in the nation’s discourse on wealth and generosity.
Below is a list of notable recipients:
Musicians:
• Mechanic Manyeruke: Gifted a brand-new Toyota Fortuner in November 2024.
• Olivia Charamba: Received a Toyota Fortuner alongside Manyeruke in November 2024.
• Leonard Karikoga Zhakata: Also honored with a Toyota Fortuner in November 2024.
• Tocky Vibes: Presented with a Mercedes-Benz GLE350d 4Matic, valued at approximately US$90,000, in January 2025.
• Diana Samkange: Received a brand-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class, valued at US$28,000.
• Mathias Mhere: Gifted a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, similar to Samkange’s.
• Andy Muridzo: Also received a Mercedes-Benz C-Class from Chivayo.
• DJ Fantan: Blessed with a Mercedes-Benz GLE350d 4Matic, valued at US$90,000, in February 2024.
Sports Personalities:
• Moses Chunga: Awarded a 2024 Toyota Fortuner F24A 2.4D 4×4 Automatic in November 2024.
• Charles Mabika: Also received a 2024 Toyota Fortuner F24A 2.4D 4×4 Automatic alongside Chunga.
Media Personalities:
• Rebecca Chisamba (Mai Chisamba): Presented with a brand-new 2024 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 4×4 Automatic in December 2024.
Business Associates:
• Kuda Tagwirei: Gifted a 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge, valued at over US$1.2 million, in February 2025.
Religious Community:
• 50 Church Members: In early 2024, Chivayo purchased over 50 Toyota Aqua cars, each valued at approximately US$7,500, for his fellow congregants.
Estimated Total Expenditure:
• US$9.3 Million: An investigation by Truth Diggers, reported by My Zimbabwe News in January 2025, revealed that Chivayo’s spending on luxury cars and opulent gifts since January 2024 exceeded US$9.3 million.
• US$5 Million: Approximately nine months prior, The Sunday Mail estimated that Chivayo had already spent about US$5 million on donations, cars, and other gifts, including personal luxury vehicles purchased in 2023.
• US$3 to US$4 Million: In November 2024, H-Metro provided a conservative estimate, suggesting that Chivayo’s expenditure on cars, football donations, and other philanthropic activities for that year alone ranged between US$3 and US$4 million.
