Tinotenda Hove – Controversial Zanu PF businessman Wicknell Chivayo on Monday announced a USD 150,000 cash donation to Leroy Zaware, popularly known as Comic Elder, in a gesture that has sparked both admiration and debate.

The donation follows closely on the heels of a brand-new motor vehicle awarded to the comedian by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, underscoring the prominence of entertainers in Zimbabwe at a time when the country faces significant economic challenges.

In a statement, Chivayo praised the comedian, saying, “Laughter is the greatest medicine. In a world where life presents its fair share of trials, laughter remains the purest therapy known to mankind. In Zimbabwe, young comedians have become the unsung healers of our nation. Through their social media skits, these talented youths have helped us manage stress and stay entertained.”

He lauded Comic Elder’s talent and national recognition, adding, “Today, I celebrate an extraordinary young man, known by many stage names, including Anna Mugwaku, Obvious Mututu, Alfred Mweya, Nichodimas Chigovanyika, Japhet Kasadza, Potipher Zvombo, Nathan Mutsetse, and more. His natural humour has earned him admiration across the country, and recently he received the highest recognition from His Excellency, President E. D. Mnangagwa at the National Youth Symposium. This exceptionally talented artist is none other than Comic Elder, whose real name is Leroy Tadiwanashe Zaware.”

Chivayo emphasized the significance of making the President laugh: “For a young comedian to make the President of the Republic laugh is no small achievement. More importantly, His Excellency’s words, ‘Ndafara newe mfana,’ set you apart. If you make the President laugh, you also delight the nation. I thank His Excellency for his gift to Comic Elder, which reflects his principle of leaving no one and no place behind. From traditional leaders to churches, entrepreneurs to artists, and from the elderly to the youth, the President recognises everyone who contributes to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development.”

He then outlined the donation: “As a token of appreciation for your talent and hard work, which has made us laugh each day and delighted the President, please see my lawyer, Sikhumbuzo Mpofu, on Friday to collect USD 150,000 in cash so you can purchase a house of your choice. For safety, the money can be transferred to your preferred bank account, or my lawyer can facilitate the house purchase and transfer it into your name. The choice is yours.”

Despite the celebration, critics argue that such high-profile donations highlight economic inequality. Economist Tendai Moyo said, “Handing out huge sums of cash to entertainers while ordinary citizens struggle with unemployment, inflation, and food insecurity underscores disparities in wealth and recognition.”

Social commentator Nomalanga Dube added, “While Comic Elder’s talent is undeniable, gestures like this risk sending the wrong message about national contribution.