Chivayo and Coltart Exchange Criticisms Over Trade Fair Delegation

A war of words erupted between Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart over Chivayo's presence alongside Presidents Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and Duma Boko of Botswana during a tour of stands at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo.

The public exchange began after Coltart criticized the decision to have Chivayo accompany the two leaders during Thursday's visit to the annual trade showcase in Bulawayo. AllAfrica reported that Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi were also present at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair event.

Coltart posted on social media criticizing Chivayo's accompaniment of the presidents, stating it was unedifying and diminished the dignity of their offices. Coltart questioned why Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, who were present at the event, had not accompanied the two heads of state instead.

Coltart noted that Chivayo holds no public office and argued that his flaunting of wealth has angered many Zimbabweans facing economic hardships, such as affording school fees or medical care. 'The manner he flaunts his wealth...

Has deeply angered millions of Zimbabweans who are struggling to pay school fees or obtain basic medical care,' Coltart said. Chivayo responded by accusing Coltart of bitterness and attempting to politicize a business event. He defended his presence at the fair, saying President Mnangagwa had the prerogative to choose members of his delegation based on the value they bring.

'It is entirely His Excellency's decision and prerogative to include in his entourage whomsoever he deems fit,' Chivayo said. He described himself as a businessman and philanthropist with interests across several African countries. Chivayo stated there was nothing unusual about a businessman attending a trade fair with two presidents.

'As a successful businessman of international repute, my presence should never lead one to assume anything unusual,' he said. Chivayo accused the opposition-led Bulawayo City Council of failing to provide basic services such as clean water. He said ZITF 2026 had been a success and demonstrated that Zimbabwe was open for business.

The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair is one of the country's largest annual commercial exhibitions. It attracts regional leaders, diplomats, investors and companies from across Africa and beyond. The article detailing these events was published on 27 April 2026 by 263Chat in Harare.