By Khokhelani Xhame-Change Radio
Hon. Willard Madzimbamuto has expressed confusion over a string of recent visits by Zimbabwe’s business and political figures, questioning what he sees as a blurry line between statecraft and private enterprise.
In rapid succession, controversial businessman, Wicknell Chivhayo met Nigerian tycoon, Tinubu in Lagos, followed by Dangote’s own trip to Harare to meet Emmerson Mnangagwa. Dangote then flew to Lusaka for talks with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. Now, Wicknell Chivhayo is in Zambia meeting Hichilema – and, according to social media, HH is set to jet into Harare tomorrow for a tête‑à‑tête with Mnangagwa.
“Is this a business confab or a heads‑of‑state confederation?” Hon. Madzimbamuto asked, laughing. “If Dangote’s an investor, why the presidential‑level meet‑greet? And if Wicknell’s just a businessman, why’s he hobnobbing with heads of states like they’re old chaps at the club?”
Hon. Madzimbamuto called for transparency, saying the public deserves to know if these visits are advancing Zimbabwe’s economic interests – or merely greasing the wheels for well‑connected insiders.
