Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has once again drawn public attention following a recent high-profile visit to Kenya, where he met President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
Chivayo, popularly known as “Sir Wicknell,” is widely recognised for his flamboyant lifestyle, controversial involvement in government tenders, and close ties to Zimbabwe’s political elite.
In a post on his X account after the meeting, Chivayo described the engagement as both successful and personally meaningful, saying he had the “privilege of paying a courtesy visit” to President Ruto and praising the warm reception.
“Yesterday evening, I once again had the privilege of paying a courtesy visit on H.E. President William Samoei Ruto at State House in Nairobi. As always, I was treated to a warm reception that never ceases to humble me,” he wrote.
ASANTE KWA UKARIMU KENYA ????
Yesterday evening I once again had the PRIVILEGE of paying a COURTESY visit on H. E. PRESIDENT WILLIAM SAMOEI RUTO at STATE HOUSE in Nairobi. As always, I was treated to a WARM reception that never ceases to humble me. There is something deeply… pic.twitter.com/60DtjHxEME
— sir_wicknell. (@wicknellchivayo) April 1, 2026
He added that being granted time within the President’s busy schedule was “deeply fulfilling”.
However, the visit sparked mixed reactions online, with many Kenyans questioning the frequency and purpose of his engagements with the country’s leadership.
Some users raised concerns over his past dealings, with one alleging involvement in electoral malpractice, while another questioned the President’s association with him and called for transparency regarding their meetings.
One posed, “President, what do you do with this guy in our State House? A prompt answer is highly appreciated.”
Another suggested Chivayo appeared to enjoy greater access to the President than ordinary citizens.
Chivayo’s business track record has long attracted scrutiny, particularly over past corruption allegations and his role in controversial government contracts in Zimbabwe.
Despite this, he continues to expand his influence across the region.
Recently, he announced a partnership with Chint Group to develop a major energy project in Kenya, including the construction of 13 power transmission lines.
Beyond Kenya, Chivayo has also been linked to engagements with other African leaders, including Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni and Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
His presence in multiple State Houses, particularly around election periods, has continued to fuel political debate and heightened scrutiny across the region.
