Controversial Zimbabwean businessman and political fixer Wicknell Chivayo has once again been seen in the company of Kenyan President William Ruto, raising eyebrows over his growing presence in East African political circles.
Chivayo, who was relatively unknown to many Kenyans until early 2025, has made several public appearances alongside President Ruto in recent months.
The latest instance came on Wednesday, April 30, when Chivayo shared photos of himself with President Ruto and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu during a high-profile event at State House, Nairobi.
In a caption accompanying the photos, Chivayo wrote: “The richest people in the world build networks. Competition happens at the bottom, people at the top are busy collaborating.”
Chivayo’s display of access to influential leaders continues to fuel public speculation, especially in light of longstanding questions surrounding his wealth. His financial success has frequently been attributed to lucrative government tenders, although specifics remain opaque.
In an April 2016 radio interview with Zimbabwean journalist Ruvheneko Parirenyatwa, Chivayo claimed he earns millions of dollars through tenders but declined to elaborate further.
Despite his self-professed success, Chivayo’s business dealings have drawn scrutiny. Multiple reputable media outlets have previously linked him to controversial and allegedly corrupt procurement practices in Zimbabwe and beyond.
