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Chivayo \u2018Gate-Crashes\u2019\u00a0Botswana President Mnangagwa Meeting<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
By A Correspondent-Controversial Zimbabwean businessman\u00a0Wicknell Chivayo\u00a0was seen in the company of President\u00a0Emmerson Mnangagwa\u00a0and\u00a0Botswana\u2019s\u00a0leader,\u00a0Duma Boko, at the just-ended\u00a0Zimbabwe International Trade Fair\u00a0(ZITF) in Bulawayo, in what observers have described as an unexpected appearance.<\/p>\n
Images circulating on social media show Chivayo in\u00a0close\u00a0proximity to the two leaders during what appeared to be high-level engagements, prompting questions about how the businessman accessed such a platform and what role, if any, he played in the meeting.<\/p>\n
Chivayo, a polarising figure in\u00a0Zimbabwe\u2019s\u00a0business landscape, has long been associated with controversy, particularly\u00a0in relation to\u00a0government-linked contracts.\u00a0He first drew widespread attention through\u00a0energy sector\u00a0deals, most notably the Gwanda solar project, which faced scrutiny over\u00a0issues of\u00a0transparency, financing, and non-delivery.<\/p>\n
Over the years, critics have questioned how he has secured lucrative state tenders, often pointing to his perceived closeness to the political elite. His association with Mnangagwa, in particular, has attracted sustained public interest, with some alleging that his business fortunes\u00a0are tied\u00a0to political patronage. However, no court has conclusively proven criminal wrongdoing in many of the claims that continue to circulate.<\/p>\n
Supporters maintain a different view, describing Chivayo as a well-connected entrepreneur with business interests spanning several countries, including Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, and China. They argue that his presence at high-level events reflects his growing regional footprint and involvement in cross-border business initiatives.<\/p>\n
Beyond business, Chivayo has also fashioned himself as a philanthropist, frequently\u00a0publicising\u00a0financial assistance to individuals and communities \u2014 a practice that has earned him both praise and\u00a0scepticism.<\/p>\n
His latest appearance alongside Mnangagwa and Boko is likely to intensify debate over the blurred lines between business and political power in Zimbabwe and the wider Southern African region.<\/p>\n
As scrutiny mounts, questions remain over the circumstances of his presence at the meeting and the broader implications of his continued proximity to influential political figures.<\/p>\n
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