Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Reporter
The Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Trust has issued a clarification regarding the recent US$250 000 donation announced by businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo, saying the contribution was not directed to their organisation.
The clarification was made in a statement released this morning by the Trust’s chairman, Mr Mehluli Moyo, following Mr Chivayo’s announcement that the donation was made in honour of the late Vice President and national hero, Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, whose legacy continues to influence Zimbabwe’s identity, 26 years after his passing.
“On behalf of the Joshua Nkomo Legacy Restoration Project Trust (JNLRPT), also known as the Joshua Nkomo Trust, I wish to clarify that we are not the recipients of the donation announced by Mr Chivayo. It is our understanding that the donation was directed to a different organisation,” said Mr Moyo.
There are two non-profit organisations (NPOs) dedicated to preserving the legacy of the late Dr Nkomo — the Joshua Nkomo Trust and the Joshua Nkomo National Foundation, which is led by Dr Nkomo’s firstborn, Ms Thandiwe Nkomo.
Mr Moyo said the Trust appreciated Mr Chivayo’s gesture, and the clarification was simply meant to avoid confusion among their partners and supporters.
“It may have been a genuine oversight, as there are two organisations honouring Dr Nkomo’s legacy. We are simply making this distinction so that our stakeholders are well informed. We also maintain cordial relations with the Joshua Nkomo National Foundation,” he said.
Last year, Ms Nkomo was one of the guest speakers at the Joshua Nkomo commemorations organised by the JNLRPT at White City Stadium. Vice President Kembo Mohadi was scheduled to be the guest of honour but was represented by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Bulawayo, Cde Judith Ncube, who delivered his speech.
This whole thing stinks of tribalism if one looks at how these foundations are structured and operate. Ironically Dr. JM Nkomo was a staunch fighter against tribalism. He himself being Kalanga and not Ndebele tried to embrace all tribes in this country. It’s a shame that in 2025 tribalism seems to still rule the roost.