By Munacho Gwamanda-Controversial businessman and convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo has finally set the record straight on the amount he paid as lobola for his fiancée, Lucy Muteke.
Contrary to widespread reports that he splashed a staggering US$300,000 on the traditional ceremony in Marondera last weekend, Chivayo insists that the actual bride price was significantly lower.
While his grand convoy and extravagant celebration created a buzz, Chivayo clarified that the figures circulating in the media reflected the overall cost of the glitzy event rather than the amount paid directly to his in-laws. According to him, the bride price was not more than US$20,000.
“The impression being created is that my in-laws pocketed US$300,000, but in reality, their lobola demands were quite reasonable,” Chivayo said.
He explained that the bulk of the expenditure went towards entertainment, which included multiple live bands, lavish décor, top-tier catering, and premium beverages.
“I sent a messenger with US$50,000 to handle the lobola requirements, and he called back to inform me that everything had been fully settled, with a lot of change remaining. Just to be safe, I had an additional US$75,000 in my car, but I never needed to use it,” he added.
The venue, which resembled an opulent setting straight out of Milan, Italy, was a testament to Chivayo’s signature flair for extravagance.
Chivayo’s high-profile lifestyle is well-documented, with the businessman often making headlines for his displays of opulence.
His lobola convoy, consisting of top-of-the-range luxury vehicles, mirrored the flamboyant image he has carefully cultivated over the years.
However, beyond the glitz, Chivayo remains a polarizing figure due to his controversial business dealings and close ties to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.
His financial muscle has largely been fueled by lucrative government contracts, some of which have been marred by allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
One of the most infamous deals linked to Chivayo is the US$200 million Gwanda Solar Project, a failed energy project for which he received millions in advance payments despite delivering no tangible results.
The scandal ignited public outrage, with critics accusing him of being a conduit for state-sanctioned looting.
Chivayo’s association with Mnangagwa has further entrenched his position in Zimbabwe’s business and political elite.
He has repeatedly defended the president while openly flaunting his wealth on social media, a move seen by many as a display of impunity enabled by his political connections.
Despite past convictions and ongoing scrutiny, his ability to secure major contracts underscores the intricate web of patronage that defines Zimbabwe’s political economy.