By A Correspondent-Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has marked President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 84th birthday with a US$2 million donation to families of fallen national heroes.

In a lengthy statement issued on Monday, September 15, Chivayo described Mnangagwa as his “beloved father” and a “true liberation icon.”

Chivayo said he had decided against a personal gift for the President, opting instead to honour liberation war heroes.

“Today I join millions of Zimbabweans in wishing our PRESIDENT and my beloved FATHER, HIS EXCELLENCY CDE DR. EMMERSON DAMBUDZO MNANGAGWA, a very HAPPY and BLESSED 84TH BIRTHDAY,” he wrote.

“Yours is an extraordinary journey of SERVICE, SACRIFICE and PATRIOTISM — from the trenches of the LIBERATION STRUGGLE to the highest office in our beloved country.”

The Zanu PF-linked tenderpreneur said Zimbabwe continues to march towards Vision 2030 under Mnangagwa’s leadership and praised his mantra “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”

As part of his birthday tribute, Chivayo announced a donation of US$50,000 each to 30 families of fallen national heroes, covering those who died during and after the liberation struggle.

He said he would add 10 more families close to his heart, including the families of the late Vice Presidents John Landa Nkomo, Joshua Nkomo, Simon Muzenda and Joseph Msika, Air Chief Marshals Josiah Tungamirai and Perence Shiri, Ambassador Simon Khaya Moyo, Sekuru Fox Sheba Gava, General Rex Nhongo and Cde Tshinga Dube.

“That will bring the final number to 40 FAMILIES OF FALLEN NATIONAL HEROES, each receiving US$50,000, making my TOTAL BIRTHDAY DONATION for you to US$2 MILLION,” Chivayo said.

He concluded by wishing the President good health and many more years leading the country.