Wicknell Chivhayo Biography| Age, Education, Personal Life, Gwanda Solar Project, Controversies
Wicknell Chivayo, also known as Sir Wicknell, is a Zimbabwean businessman recognized primarily for his frequent social media updates showcasing his wealth.
While the exact origin of his riches remains undisclosed, there have been allegations connecting him to corrupt business practices and his close associations with Zimbabwean politicians, including the family of former President Robert Mugabe.
Age
Wicknell was born on November 22, 1982.
Personal Life
Wicknell lost his father, Isaac Mathias Chivayo, in a car accident when he was just 10 years old. Following this tragedy, Wicknell was raised by his mother in the Gandami area of Chivhu.
Education
Chivayo began his educational journey at Dudley Hall Primary School, where he completed his primary education.
He then proceeded to Churchill Boys High School for his secondary education. Chivayo was known to possess exceptional academic abilities and showed great promise in his studies.
However, due to financial constraints, he unfortunately had to discontinue his education in 1996 while he was in Form Two.
Marriage
In July 2017, reports surfaced stating that Chivayo had paid lobola, a traditional bride price, for his then-fiancée, Sonja Madzikanada. They have two children.
Controversies
2011 Arrest
In 2011, Wicknell was reportedly arrested, and the state confiscated his five extravagant cars on charges of fraud and money laundering.
However, following a contentious trial, he was eventually cleared of eight counts of fraud and money laundering.
The police involved in the case were criticized for their perceived “lack of professionalism.”
Gwanda Solar Project
The Gwanda Solar Project Tender: Chivayo’s involvement in the controversial $173 million Gwanda solar project tender has been a subject of scrutiny.
The project has faced allegations of misappropriation of funds and has been a topic of discussion in Parliament .
Chivayo appeared before Parliament’s Mines and Energy Committee to answer questions regarding the tender
Association with Robert Mugabe’s family
According to reports, Chivayo openly expressed his affiliation with former president Robert Mugabe on social media.
In April 2016, he shared photographs on Facebook, showcasing a dinner he had with the then First Lady, Grace Mugabe, in Dubai.
It was alleged that Chivayo leveraged his connection to the former first family to secure government tenders.
Social Media Disputes
Chivayo’s presence on social media has often been a source of controversy. His family has been involved in public disputes, with his wife accusing her late mother-in-law of bewitching their minor son.
