Eswatini grants citizenship, diplomatic passport to controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo

Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has reportedly been granted citizenship of the Kingdom of Eswatini by King Mswati III, a move that has generated widespread discussion across Southern and Eastern Africa.

Reports circulating on social media and regional media platforms indicate that Chivayo was also presented with an Eswatini diplomatic passport during a recent visit to the kingdom.

Chivayo has increasingly positioned himself among influential political and business circles across the region. He has publicly associated with several African leaders, including William Ruto and Samia Suluhu Hassan, relationships that have fuelled perceptions of his growing influence in regional economic and political affairs.

Recent images and statements shared online have shown Chivayo interacting with senior government officials and business leaders from multiple countries.

The development comes amid controversy in Kenya, where reports emerged earlier this week alleging that Chivayo's company, IMC Construction, had secured a role in the multi-billion-shilling expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

Some media reports claimed that the Zimbabwean businessman was part of a consortium linked to the airport modernisation project.

However, the Kenyan government swiftly dismissed the claims, with Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir stating that neither Chivayo nor his company participated in the procurement process and that they have no role whatsoever in the JKIA expansion project.

The government further clarified that the tender evaluation process remains ongoing and that no contract has been awarded to any entity associated with Chivayo.

The twin developments his reported acquisition of Eswatini citizenship and the controversy surrounding the JKIA tender have once again thrust Chivayo into the regional spotlight, underscoring both his growing profile and the persistent scrutiny that accompanies his business dealings across Africa.