Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu
PROMINENT businessman Wicknell Chivayo has donated US$250,000 to the Joshua Nkomo Trust in honour of the late Vice President and national hero, Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, whose legacy continues to shape Zimbabwe’s identity 26 years after his passing.
The donation, announced through Chivayo’s official social media platforms, is aimed at supporting ongoing initiatives in education, cultural development, and welfare programmes that reflect Dr Nkomo’s vision for a united and prosperous Zimbabwe.
“Father Zimbabwe… the legacy lives on,” Chivayo wrote in his statement. “Every year on the 1st of July, the nation of Zimbabwe solemnly remembers the illustrious life of a gallant son of the soil, Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, who sadly passed away 26 years ago.”
He described Dr Nkomo as a fearless liberator, a unifying force and a lifelong champion of peace, who stood for equality, empowerment, and the upliftment of all Zimbabweans regardless of race or tribe.
“Cde Nkomo was a symbol of unity and reconciliation. He played a pivotal role in the consolidation of ZANLA and ZIPRA into a formidable Zimbabwe National Army and was instrumental in the signing of the historic Unity Accord of 1987,” Chivayo said.
Dr Nkomo, affectionately known as Umdala Wethu, was also praised for his post-independence contribution, particularly in areas such as education, agriculture, war veterans’ welfare, and rural development.
“In recognition of his immense contribution to our liberation struggle and distinguished service after independence, I wish to humbly extend US$250 000 to the Joshua Nkomo Trust, led by his firstborn daughter, Thandi Nkomo, as a small token of appreciation,” said Chivayo.
He invited the designated trustees of the Trust to collect the donation at their earliest convenience and expressed hope that the contribution would advance the Trust’s community-driven projects in line with Dr Nkomo’s aspirations for a better Zimbabwe.
The Joshua Nkomo Trust continues to preserve the legacy of Dr Nkomo by supporting educational initiatives, promoting national unity, and providing assistance to vulnerable communities.
“May his dear soul continue to rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to live on through generations to come,” Chivayo said.
