VIDEO: Wicknell Chivayo spotted handing out cash gifts at JKIA

Renowned Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo was recently captured on video handing out cash to staff members at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

In the clip seen by TNX Africa, Chivayo is seen standing outside his recently acquired Gulfstream G550 private jet, reportedly valued at Sh4.4 billion ($34 million), while holding a bundle of cash.

Dressed in a navy-blue tracksuit, the businessman distributes money to several people gathered around the aircraft.

At one point, he appears to retrieve more cash from the jet before continuing to hand it out to airport workers dressed in reflector jackets.

The video ends with Chivayo placing the remaining money back into his pocket as he smiles.

Ule muoshwo unakuja hata Goldenberg e tal will look like child’s play. Interesting times ahead.. pic.twitter.com/DusKWwwPxd

— Voice of Meru??™ (@MutumaoNkanata) June 17, 2026

The businessman is known for his close ties to influential figures across Africa, as reflected in numerous photographs showing him alongside presidents and senior political leaders.

Among the images circulating on social media are photos of Chivayo with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, and another with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

While such encounters would be career highlights for many businesspeople, they appear routine for Chivayo. 

He is the founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, a company involved in renewable energy projects, including solar and hydroelectric power developments.

According to the company's website, it is engaged in initiatives aimed at improving Zimbabwe's electricity supply.

However, Chivayo's business journey has not been without controversy. In 2004, he served a three-year prison sentence after being convicted in a fraud-related case.

In 2015, Intratrek secured a US$172 million (Sh22.3 billion) contract to build a solar power plant and reportedly received an advance payment of US$5.6 million (Sh725.2 million). By 2017, however, Chivayo acknowledged that construction had not commenced. The project remains incomplete to date.

Despite criticism surrounding the stalled project, Chivayo was later acquitted of criminal charges linked to the deal, while the contract remained in force.

The businessman is also known for his lavish lifestyle and frequent displays of wealth on social media. He often gifts luxury vehicles to public figures, friends and associates.

Among his recent high-profile gifts was a brand-new Mercedes-Benz presented to his lawyer.

He also gifted a Mercedes-Benz SUV worth about US$90,000 to Zimbabwean musician Tocky Vibes and purchased a luxury Range Rover for fellow entertainer Wagwizi.