HARARE – Flamboyant businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has once again sparked national buzz after he made a surprise donation to popular street preacher Evangelist Trymore Muparinga. The generous gesture, which included a brand-new 2025 Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD6 and a staggering US$50,000 in cash, has sent social media into overdrive and drawn praise—and debate—across Zimbabwe.
Evangelist Muparinga, well known to many Harare residents and visitors, has for years been preaching at the bustling corner of 1st Street and Speke Avenue in central Harare. With his energetic delivery and consistent presence, he has become a spiritual fixture in the city’s downtown area, where he delivers passionate sermons to passersby, often under harsh weather conditions and amid the noise of urban life.
On Wednesday, Muparinga’s ministry took a dramatic turn when Chivayo arrived unannounced and handed him the keys to the luxury SUV, as well as an envelope reportedly containing the US$50,000 in cash. The surprise moment, captured in a video now widely circulated on social media, shows the preacher overcome with emotion, thanking God and blessing Chivayo in return.
Speaking shortly after the handover, Chivayo said he was moved by Muparinga’s unwavering commitment to evangelism despite limited resources.
“Evangelist Muparinga has been preaching the word of God on the streets without fail. He has inspired many and stood firm in his calling. This gift is simply a way to say thank you and to honour his faithfulness. He is not only reaching souls but also reminding us all of the power of consistency and humility,” Chivayo said.
The businessman, known for his lavish lifestyle and equally extravagant acts of charity, emphasized that the gift was a personal expression of gratitude, not a publicity stunt.
“I don’t do this for fame. I do it because I believe in giving back. God has blessed me abundantly, and I will continue to bless others,” he added.
Wicknell Chivayo Surprises Evangelist Trymore Muparinga with 2025 Toyota Fortuner and US$50,000 in Cash
Muparinga, overwhelmed by the gift, could barely hold back tears as he expressed gratitude for the life-changing surprise.
“I never expected this. I’m just a servant of God doing what He called me to do. This is proof that God sees us even when we think no one is watching,” the evangelist said. “To Mr. Chivayo, may the Lord bless you beyond measure. You didn’t just give me a car or money — you gave me encouragement to keep going.”
Reactions to the gesture have been swift and divided. Many Zimbabweans on social media platforms such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) lauded Chivayo for his generosity and for recognizing grassroots ministers of the Gospel.
“Say what you will about Wicknell, but he knows how to empower people. Evangelist Muparinga deserves it. He’s been preaching tirelessly on those streets for years,” wrote one user.
Others, however, have questioned whether such high-profile donations might be better directed towards sustainable community development or support for broader social initiatives like hospitals, schools, and food security.
Nonetheless, the overwhelming majority of comments on social media have been supportive, with many praising the symbolic nature of the gesture.
Religious leaders have also weighed in, with some saying Chivayo’s gesture sends a powerful message about the importance of supporting spiritual leaders who serve outside traditional church settings.
“This is a profound reminder that ministry is not confined to the pulpit,” said Reverend Tinashe Moyo of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches. “Evangelist Muparinga represents a kind of faithfulness that often goes unnoticed. It’s uplifting to see someone in his position honoured so publicly.”
Chivayo has made headlines before for similar acts of generosity, including purchasing luxury vehicles for musicians, pastors, and other public figures whom he says inspire or serve the community.
His critics often accuse him of attention-seeking, but Chivayo has consistently brushed off the criticism, maintaining that he is fulfilling what he believes to be a spiritual calling to help others.
As for Muparinga, he says he will continue preaching on the streets of Harare.
“The car won’t change my calling,” he said with a smile. “I’ll still be here, preaching, rain or shine. Only now I have a place to rest and means to help others even more.”
The moment has left many Zimbabweans reflecting on the impact of visible faith, generosity, and the power of unexpected blessings. Whether a one-time spectacle or a trend-setting act of charity, Chivayo’s latest gesture has undoubtedly placed a spotlight on those who labour quietly in the service of others.
