A swirling controversy, dubbed the ‘Chivayo gifts row,’ has reportedly led to significant administrative shifts, including retrenchments, at CapiTalk, a prominent Zimbabwean media house. The scandal gained traction following revelations of controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo distributing lavish gifts to various public figures and media personalities.
Adding fuel to the ethical debate, prominent Zimbabwean Advocate Lewis Uriri and his wife publicly rejected gifts worth US$350,000, including a luxury vehicle and cash, from Chivayo. This rejection underscores the growing scrutiny over the source and implications of such high-value donations, particularly in the public sector. The controversy has also seen Zimpapers, the parent company of CapiTalk, reportedly sack top personalities Phathisani Sibanda and Yvonne Tivatye, who were allegedly embroiled in the gift scandal.
Key Players Involved
- Wicknell Chivayo: Controversial Zimbabwean businessman at the center of the gift-giving scandal.
- CapiTalk: Zimbabwean media house experiencing administrative shifts and retrenchments due to the controversy.
- Advocate Lewis Uriri: Prominent Zimbabwean legal figure who publicly rejected gifts from Chivayo.
- Phathisani Sibanda & Yvonne Tivatye: Top Zimpapers/CapiTalk personalities reportedly sacked in connection with the gifts row.
Event Timeline
- September 23, 2026: Reports emerge of retrenchments at CapiTalk linked to the ‘Chivayo gifts row.’
- September 23, 2026: Zimbabwean Advocate Lewis Uriri and his wife publicly reject US$350,000 in gifts from Wicknell Chivayo.
- September 23, 2026: Zimpapers reportedly sacks Phathisani Sibanda and Yvonne Tivatye following their alleged involvement in the gifts scandal.
