Harare, Zimbabwe – Controversial businessman and socialite Wicknell Chivayo has followed through on his promise to compensate Netsai Jacob with US$5,000 after an incident at Victoria Falls International Airport sparked a wave of online ridicule. The resolution comes after a widely discussed cash giveaway turned chaotic on Christmas Day 2024, leaving Jacob humiliated.
Acknowledgment of Receipt
Jacob officially acknowledged receiving the US$5,000 as a goodwill gesture from Chivayo via his lawyers at Munangati & Associates. The acknowledgment document, dated January 7, 2025, confirmed the payment as a token of regret for the “misunderstood philanthropic incident.”
In the document, Jacob stated:
“I do hereby acknowledge that I have received $5,000.00 (Five Thousand United States Dollars Only) from Munangati & Associates on behalf of Mr. W. Chivayo, being a token of generous regret for an unfortunately misunderstood philanthropic incident that occurred at Victoria Falls Airport where I later received ridicule on social media.”
Background of the Incident
The incident occurred during Chivayo’s Christmas Day gesture of distributing US$100 notes to Victoria Falls Airport staff. While the giveaway was intended for employees wearing green reflective vests, the crowd attracted non-staff members, including Jacob. Despite her pleas, she was left out of the handout, a moment captured in a viral video that led to her being mocked online.
Chivayo’s Apology and Generosity
In response to the backlash, Chivayo issued a public apology to Jacob and her family, acknowledging the public embarrassment she faced. He expressed understanding for her actions, stating:
“This woman simply decided to seize the opportunity out of hope and necessity. What may seem like a moment of humiliation can become a breakthrough.”
To make amends, Chivayo directed Jacob to his legal team, where she was presented with the US$5,000 compensation as a gesture of goodwill.
Social Media Reactions
The resolution has garnered mixed reactions online, with some commending Chivayo for taking responsibility and others questioning the initial execution of his philanthropic act.
One commenter wrote: “Wicknell has shown maturity and empathy by addressing this matter thoughtfully. More influential people should follow his example.”
Another added: “This could have been avoided with better organization, but at least he made things right.”
