Published: 7 hours ago

Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo's growing visibility in regional State House circles has sparked political backlash in Kenya and renewed scrutiny across parts of southern and eastern Africa over his ties to senior political leaders.

The Harare-based businessman, who has recently been a frequent guest at Kenya's State House under President William Ruto, has drawn criticism following his visit to the newly built Wajir State Lodge after Madaraka Day celebrations.

In a post on X, Chivayo praised President Ruto, describing him as a "visionary leader" and revealed that discussions were underway regarding a multimillion-dollar investment project in Kenya, though no official details have been released by the Kenyan government.

Chivayo, a director of Intratrek Zimbabwe, has previously positioned his company as a major renewable energy contractor, claiming involvement in large-scale solar and hydro power projects across Zimbabwe.

However, his public profile remains controversial due to his past conviction for fraud in Zimbabwe in 2004, which resulted in a three-year prison sentence at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.

His recent engagements have triggered criticism from opposition figures and civil society actors in Kenya, who question the nature of his access to State House and the transparency of proposed investment deals.

Former Kenyan Attorney General Justin Muturi also weighed in, accusing the government of associating with individuals linked to disputed elections and questionable business dealings across the continent, and questioning Chivayo's repeated access to presidential offices.

Muturi further alleged that Chivayo has been linked to election-related controversies in multiple countries, including South Africa and Namibia, claims which have not been independently verified by authorities in those jurisdictions.

The businessman has also been at the centre of controversy in South Africa, where reports indicate that his assets have been frozen and he is reportedly under investigation by the Hawks for alleged money laundering.

South African officials have previously clarified that President Cyril Ramaphosa was unaware of Chivayo's presence during a meeting in Zimbabwe, which later drew public attention after photographs from the event circulated online.

In Tanzania, media freedom groups also raised concerns after JamiiForums, a prominent digital platform, was temporarily suspended following reports highlighting alleged links between President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Chivayo, a move authorities said was in line with regulations.

Chivayo has not publicly responded in detail to the latest wave of criticism, beyond continued social media posts highlighting his engagements with African leaders.

The developments have intensified debate around the role of politically connected businessmen in state investment processes and the transparency of high-level government engagements across the region.
- The Eastleigh

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