HARARE – Businessman Wicknell Chivayo once again seized the national spotlight after winning a dramatic high-stakes bidding war for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s signature scarf, offering a staggering US$600,000 — roughly R11.1 million — during a charity auction that left guests astonished. The auction formed the centrepiece of the Angel of Hope Foundation’s Annual Christmas Fundraising Dinner, held at State House on the evening of Friday, 28 November 2025. The entire amount from the winning bid was donated to the foundation, which is chaired by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa.
Witnesses described the atmosphere as electric from the moment the auction was announced. In an unexpected gesture, President Mnangagwa personally removed his trademark scarf — a colourful accessory that has become synonymous with his public image — and offered it for bidding. According to a guest who attended the event, the President made a light-hearted comment about a “peaceful transfer of power,” prompting cheers and laughter from dignitaries, business executives and invited guests. An aide immediately stepped forward with a replacement scarf, ensuring the President remained fully kitted in his signature style.
The bidding began briskly, with early offers starting in the low thousands. But the contest intensified rapidly, transforming into one of the most spirited auctions ever seen at the foundation’s fundraising events. The competition narrowed when FS Mining, a prominent gold mining company, positioned itself as a serious contender by placing a bid of US$250,000 — approximately R4.6 million. For several moments, it appeared the mining firm might clinch the symbolic item.
However, the dynamic shifted dramatically when Wicknell Chivayo, known for his flair, wealth and headline-grabbing philanthropy, joined the contest. He entered with a powerful counteroffer of US$450,000 (about R8.3 million), instantly overtaking the mining company’s bid and raising the stakes of the entire event. His arrival in the bidding war visibly energised the room, with many guests anticipating a showdown.
Wicknell Chivayo Wins Bidding War for President’s Scarf With US$600,000 Offer
In an unexpected twist, Collins Mnangagwa, the President’s twin son, momentarily took the spotlight by playfully submitting a bid of US$500,000 (roughly R9.3 million). His humorous intervention added levity to an already charged atmosphere and drew applause from attendees. It also briefly appeared to challenge Chivayo’s position — but only for a moment.
Without hesitation, Chivayo responded with a decisive and unmatched bid of US$600,000, a figure that instantly silenced any remaining competition. The room erupted into applause as the auctioneer confirmed the bid, sealing Chivayo’s victory and marking the moment as one of the most memorable in the event’s history.
After the heated bidding concluded, Chivayo publicly reflected on his win. He emphasised that beyond the spectacle of the moment, his primary motivation was supporting the Angel of Hope Foundation’s charitable mission.
“It was an honour to acquire such a significant item for such a worthy cause,” he said. “The work that the Angel of Hope Foundation does is incredible, and I was happy to contribute.”
The massive contribution came just 48 hours after another headline-making announcement from the businessman. On Wednesday, 26 November 2025, Chivayo pledged US$1 million — approximately R18.5 million — to Dudley Hall Primary School in Norton, where he completed his early education. According to official information released by the school, the funds will be used to construct two modern dormitory blocks. The new buildings will be named Emmerson Dambudzo House and Auxillia House, honouring the President and First Lady.
A spokesperson for the Angel of Hope Foundation praised Chivayo’s generosity, saying the contribution would have a far-reaching impact.
“We are overwhelmed by Mr Chivayo’s generosity,” the spokesperson said. “This single act of kindness will directly support vulnerable women and children across the nation. It was a truly historic night for charity in Zimbabwe.”
The foundation, which focuses on assisting disadvantaged children, the elderly and women facing social or economic vulnerabilities, relies heavily on donations from individuals and corporate partners. Events like the annual Christmas dinner play a critical role in mobilising resources for its programmes.
Chivayo’s successful bid — one of the largest individual contributions recorded at the foundation’s fundraisers — has further cemented his reputation for bold philanthropic gestures. Over recent years, the businessman has become known for donating vehicles, funding community projects, and supporting public institutions in ways that often command national attention.
Friday night’s auction added yet another chapter to his growing list of high-profile charitable acts, reinforcing his status as one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent and controversial benefactors.
Source- iHARARE
