Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has once again found himself at the centre of attention after sharing a video showing his movement around Nairobi, complete with a heavy security escort and traffic being controlled along his route.
The dramatic footage has left many Kenyans asking: Who exactly is Wicknell Chivayo, and how did he become one of Africa’s most talked-about wealthy businessmen?
Chivayo is a Zimbabwean businessman and entrepreneur best known for his involvement in infrastructure and energy projects.
He is the founder and managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe, a company that has been involved in major government-linked projects, including the controversial Gwanda Solar Project, which was valued at about US$172 million.
His business dealings have attracted scrutiny over the years, particularly questions surrounding government contracts and the source of his wealth.
Chivayo, however, has maintained that his fortune comes from his business interests.
Today, his name is almost inseparable from the extravagant lifestyle he displays publicly.
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Luxury Cars, Watches and Private Jets
Chivayo has built a reputation for living an exceptionally lavish lifestyle.
His social media pages regularly showcase a collection of luxury vehicles, expensive watches, designer clothing and high-end properties.
He has also become famous for his generosity, frequently gifting expensive cars and large amounts of money to celebrities, musicians, media personalities and other public figures.
Among the notable gifts he has made are luxury vehicles and substantial cash presents, further cementing his image as one of Zimbabwe’s biggest spenders.
His love for luxury also extends to aviation, with Chivayo publicly showcasing his private jet and using it to travel across Africa.
His Unusual Connection With President Ruto
Chivayo’s growing presence in Kenya has attracted even more attention because of his relationship with President William Ruto.
The Zimbabwean businessman has met Ruto at State House and has been seen accompanying the President on various occasions.
One of the most talked-about moments came when Ruto reportedly personally drove Chivayo for about three kilometres to a helipad.
The unusual encounter sparked widespread reactions online, with many questioning how a foreign businessman had developed such close access to the Kenyan President.
Wicknell Chivayo with William Ruto // Instagram
Now Taking Nairobi by Storm
His latest appearance in Nairobi has only added to the fascination.
In the video shared by Chivayo, a sizeable security team can be seen accompanying him as traffic is controlled around his convoy.
For an ordinary visitor, such an arrival would be extraordinary. For Chivayo, however, it appears to have become part of the lifestyle surrounding his public image.
