Zimbabwe's Flashy Philanthropist: The Curious Case of Sir Wicknell's Car Giveaways

A controversial tycoon has seized Zimbabwe's attention through astonishing acts of generosity, distributing luxury automobiles and substantial cash gifts to musicians, church leaders, and political supporters. Wicknell Chivayo, who anoints himself "Sir Wicknell", transitioned from a humble bus company clerk to a national celebrity whose likeness now adorns local minibus taxis.

The 44-year-old magnate selects premium vehicles like Mercedes-Benz SUVs and Range Rovers for recipients, while cruising Harare in his signature white Rolls-Royce. His social media channels overflow with documentation of these gifts - typically photos of ribbon-adorned vehicles accompanied by instructions for collection at upscale dealerships. Recently, he awarded musician Jah Prayzah a $150,000 Range Rover plus equivalent cash, praising the artist's "patriotism in uniting people through music".

Beyond automobiles, Chivayo provides houses and educational scholarships to members of his Zion Christian Church congregation. His extravagant displays epitomize Zimbabwe's burgeoning "flex culture", with Instagram chronicles showcasing designer purchases, global travels, and a newly acquired private jet. "Shopping and spending money are just some of my hobbies," he declared in one early post.

The businessman maintains close ties with political power, sharing images alongside leaders from late president Robert Mugabe to Kenya's William Ruto. While ruling party accounts celebrate his philanthropy, critics question his wealth origins in a nation where most endure economic hardship. A business associate anonymously noted "he is politically protected", hinting at deeper connections.

Chivayo's past includes a fraud conviction where he shared a prison block with British mercenary Simon Mann. The ex-soldier's memoir recounts Chivayo advising against criticizing the ruling Zanu-PF party, calling unsolicited gifts "massively powerful in Africa". His business ventures faced scrutiny when a $172m solar power contract became entangled in fraud allegations, though courts later acquitted him.

Despite avoiding media interviews, Chivayo briefly revealed on radio that government tenders for energy and construction projects form his primary income. As debates continue about his motivations and methods, Sir Wicknell's blend of ostentation and charity keeps Zimbabweans both fascinated and divided.