By A Correspondent
Controversial Zanu PF businessman Wicknell Chivayo has made headlines again, this time by giving away USD 5000 to a woman who was left out after he distributed money to airport staff during a recent visit to Victoria Falls. The incident, which caused an online stir, has sparked both criticism and a surprising act of generosity from Chivayo.
Chivayo explained the situation in a statement, acknowledging the misunderstanding that led to the woman’s embarrassment. “From VICTIM to VICTORY…” he began, addressing the “unfortunate criticism” directed at the woman in the viral video. “My attention has been drawn to the unfortunate criticism directed at the woman in the video circulating on social media, who did not receive USD 100 like other airport staff during my recent visit to Victoria Falls.”
The businessman explained that during his trip, he had decided to show gratitude to the airport staff who were on duty during the Christmas holiday. “As I prepared to board my private jet back to Harare in the company of my beautiful and beloved partner, I felt deeply moved by the airport staff who were on duty, sacrificing time with their families during Christmas time. Out of gratitude and compassion, I decided to bless the staff wearing green reflective vests with USD 100 each as a small token of appreciation.”
However, things took a turn when other people, including the woman, mistakenly approached Chivayo for money. “Unfortunately, this kind gesture was misunderstood, and other non-staff members, including the woman in question, began to join in, leading to the regrettable incident,” he explained.
In the video that went viral, the woman in a pink top and blue jeans was seen trying to get her share, but after Chivayo realized that she wasn’t part of the airport staff, he stopped giving out money. The woman was left out, which led to her making frantic requests to receive USD 100. “When I stopped giving out the money, the woman in the pink top and blue jeans was unfortunately left out, despite making frantic requests to also get the USD.”
Chivayo expressed regret over the situation, which led to the woman facing online ridicule. “This incident has regrettably subjected her to online ridicule and derogatory comments. I personally don’t know this woman, but I wish to extend my heartfelt apology for the public embarrassment she has endured, as well as to her family and husband, if she is married,” he said.
He acknowledged the woman’s actions, stating that he understood why she approached him. “I understand her actions. I would have done exactly the same thing if I saw a millionaire giving money in that context. This woman simply decided to seize the opportunity out of hope and necessity.”
In a gesture to make amends, Chivayo offered a significant amount of money. “As a small gesture of my goodwill and token of apology for the unfortunate incident, please urgently contact my lawyer, Mr. Sikhumbuzo Mpofu of Munangate & Associates and collect USD 5000 cash for the reputational damage this incident has caused,” Chivayo announced. “I wish you and your family a prosperous 2025!”
This move from Chivayo, who is known for his controversial public image, marks an unexpected resolution to a situation that sparked both public derision and a surprising act of kindness.