Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Reporter
BUSINESSMAN and philanthropist Mr Wicknell Chivhayo, popularly known as Sir Wicknell, has pledged to give each of the Junior Parliamentarians US$1 500, saying the funds should be invested in education, income-generating projects and other initiatives that improve their future.
The pledge follows widespread public attention generated by a Junior Parliamentarian’s speech in which he requested an iPhone 17 Pro Max.
In a statement, Sir Wicknell said the money would be distributed through Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire on a date to be announced, subject to approval by the respective school principals.
He said the beneficiaries, who are minors, will not receive the funds directly.
“Since our Junior Parliamentarians are minors, no money will be handed directly to the children,” he said.
“Each child should be accompanied by a parent, preferably their mother or father, or responsible next of kin and the money will be handed to that adult.”
Sir Wicknell said he has opted to provide cash equivalent to the value of the mobile phone requested so that the funds could be channelled towards more productive purposes.
“I’m pleased to say having heard your requests, instead of buying expensive phones, I will give every Junior Parliamentarian US$1 500 each,” he said.
“This is approximately the value of the phone you requested, but I would rather give you the money so it can be used towards education, a small project or something meaningful that can improve your future.”
He commended the confidence and eloquence displayed by the Junior Parliamentarian and described him as “one for the future,” he said.
“I was genuinely impressed by the confidence, intelligence and eloquence with which you presented your speech.
“At such a young age, to articulate yourself with such courage and composure is truly commendable.”
Sir Wicknell also clarified that the title “His Excellency” is reserved for the President of Zimbabwe.
“Honourable Tavengwa, Minister of State for Harare, is Honourable, but he is not Excellency. In Zimbabwe there is only one Excellency — His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Head of State and Government and Chancellor of all State Universities,” he said.
He also criticised comments made by a female politician who has reportedly suggested that allowing children to ask for expensive items encouraged begging.
“I found that extremely unfortunate as there is absolutely nothing wrong with a young child dreaming of owning an iPhone 17 Pro Max. As adults, our responsibility is to guide and educate them, not insult or discourage them,” he said.
Sir Wicknell urged the Junior Parliamentarians to continue championing the fight against drug and substance abuse while encouraging their peers to focus on education, discipline and nation-building.
“Continue using your voices to discourage fellow youths from drugs and substance abuse. Encourage your fellow students to focus on education, discipline and building a better future,” he said.
“Amongst you are Zimbabwe’s future ministers, professionals, entrepreneurs and national leaders.”
