Sungura musician Leonard Karikoga Zhakata has praised Wicknell Chivayo after receiving a brand new Toyota Fortuner from the socialite.
Chivayo, who is often linked to state tenders and contracts, gifted three Toyota Fortuner on Monday to Zhakata, along with fellow musicians Olivia Charamba and Mechanic Manyeruke.
Chivayo said that he chose to give the vehicles to the musicians because they had inspired both him and his mother “during the toughest times of our lives.”
However, the gesture has sparked controversy. Chivayo, an ex-convict with a questionable reputation, has faced criticism for his dealings.
Some commentators questioned whether it was appropriate for Zhakata, known for advocating social justice through his music, Charamba, a pastor, and Manyeruke, a gospel music pioneer, to accept such “gifts” from a figure with a tainted background.
Veteran journalist Ranga Mberi posted on X: “Honestly it’s sad for me that LKZ and other legends are taking such dirty ‘donations’… As a big LKz fan, yes, I have a big problem with LKZ accepting Wiknero’s dirty money and praising him.”
Top lawyer and former Member of Parliament Fadzayi Mahere wrote: “Does Zhakata know who he is?”
Zhakata collected his new vehicle on Tuesday, while Mai Charamba and Mechanic Manyeruke received theirs on Monday.
Speaking at Faramatsi Motors, where he picked up his car, Zhakata revealed that he was initially unaware of the donation when the news broke.
He said he was so shocked by the news that he had to send his younger brother to confirm the details. Said Zhakata:
<blockquote>
I had gone to work in Chipinge and the network on that side was so bad but l started to see congratulatory messages,
I didn’t have the first-hand information, so I thought it was a prank, or people were just playing with me.
I got back in Harare pretty late so I couldn’t come yesterday (Monday) when others collected their cars.
I couldn’t believe it and l had to send my younger brother Ben Zhakata to confirm and inform Faramatsi Motors that l would come to collect it in the morning.
I wish l could take my heart out and give it to Sir Wicknell because this is unbelievable and I’m so happy that words are not enough.
I’m not just thankful for myself only but l really appreciate what he did for my friend and colleague Simon Pashoma, may the Lord continue to bless you.
May I not be the last you helped.
</blockquote>
Zhakata has faced a backlash for accepting the car from Chivayo given the latter is a controversial figure with a history of legal issues, including allegations of corruption and fraud.
Critics argue that accepting such a gift could tarnish Zhakata’s reputation and integrity, as it might appear that he is endorsing or condoning Chivayo’s alleged unethical practices.
Some people believe that public figures should be careful about the sources of their gifts to maintain their credibility and public trust.
Zhakata’s hits like “Mugove,” “Sakunatswa,” “Pane Ziya Panedovi,” and “Chiiko Nesu” have resonated with audiences for their strong messages against corruption, abuse of power, and injustice.
For some, his decision to accept a gift from Chivayo seems to contradict the powerful principles he has championed in his music for over three decades, thereby undermining the integrity of his message.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Zhakata got a car from Wicknell Chivayo. Chivayo is a controversial figure. People are upset because Zhakata is known for social justice songs. They think accepting the car could make Zhakata look bad. Some say public figures should be careful about where they get gifts from. Zhakata was shocked by the gift and felt grateful. He sent his brother to confirm it wasn't a joke. But some people think accepting a gift from Chivayo goes against Zhakata's message in his music. They worry it could hurt his reputation.

Zhakata Criticised For Accepting Car From Chivayo

Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has gifted cars to three of Zimbabwe’s music legends—Mechanic Manyeruke, Olivia Charamba, and Leonard Karikoga Zhakata.
In a post on his social media pages this Monday, Chivayo said that he chose to gift the vehicles to the musicians because they had inspired him and his mother “during the toughest times of our lives.”
Chivayo also shared personal details about his life in the post, including the passing of his mother, Canisia Chivayo, on January 6, 2021. He also revealed that she had lived in Gandami, Chivhu and that he was born in Chitungwiza, Unit J. He added:
<blockquote>
Her sacrifices, hard work, and UNSHAKABLE FAITH in my potential shaped me into the man I am today.
I spent the afternoon at Glenforest Cemetery, laying flowers and honouring her memory, grateful for her UNMATCHED LOVE that continues to guide me.
My apologies to the thousands of friends, and well-wishers who sent me beautiful birthday messages that I could not respond to on the day.
The EMOTIONAL weight of the day made it impossible for me to celebrate in the usual way. I will do my best to respond to as many messages as I can, though I know I won’t be able to reply to everyone.
However, as I had planned to celebrate my birthday UNIQUELY this year, I decided to honour three OUTSTANDING music icons who always inspired me and my mother during the toughest times of our lives.
These are BABA MECHANIC MANYERUKE, MAI CHARAMBA and LEONARD KARIKOGA ZHAKATA.
My favorite songs “Ndinamatire Ndigo Kunamatirawo”, “Ndiri Munana” and “Hupenyu Mutoro” respectively gave us hope and strength to PERSEVERE.
</blockquote>
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GdNf16pWcAAgRFC?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
Chivayo said Manyeruke, Mai Charamba, and Zhakata’s brand-new 2024 Toyota Fortuners were ready for collection. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Please go to FARAMATSI MOTORS at their CLUBCHAMBERS showroom Cnr 3rd Street and Nelson Mandela and see Mr REEVES, your 3 brand new 2024 TOYOTA FORTUNER F24A 2.4d 4 X 4 AUTOMATIC are ready for collection.
Please accept this as my SMALL TOKEN to appreciate your unmatched contributions to the music industry and your role in shaping many life journeys…
As I celebrate my birthday, I will continue making an effort to always give back to the community and support outstanding individuals of MY CHOICE.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Summary:
Businessman Wicknell Chivayo gave cars to three famous musicians in Zimbabwe because they inspired him during hard times. He shared about his mother's passing and thanked these icons for their music. The musicians, Manyeruke, Mai Charamba, and Zhakata, received new cars as gifts. Chivayo wants to give back to the community and support people he admires. Many messages for his birthday made him emotional, but he still decided to celebrate by honoring these music legends.

Chivayo Honours Music Icons, Manyeruke, Mai Charamba, And Zhakata With Car Gifts

Gospel artist, Mechanic Manyeruke will launch his new album ‘Dzokororo’ at the Meikles Hotel on Saturday 19 May.
The event will be coordinated by Afro jazz artist, Dudu Manhenga. Baba Manyeruke’s album launch falls on the same day as the start of National Culture Week in Zimbabwe, which runs from 19-25 May 2018.
More: <a href="http://www.zimbojam.com/baba-manyeruke-drops-new-album-saturday/">Zimbojam</a>

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