Chivayo’s Luxury Car Deals Leave US$5.1m Debt

Late businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s estate could face outstanding debts of US$5.1 million owed to three Harare car dealerships, according to a report by ZimLive.

The reported amounts are US$2.4 million owed to Faramatsi Motors, US$1.4 million to Exquisite Cars and US$1.3 million to Enterprise Car Sales. The debts reportedly arose from arrangements that allowed Chivayo to acquire luxury vehicles on credit and settle payments later.

A source familiar with the transactions told ZimLive that Chivayo typically cleared his bills within three months, depending on when he received payments from the Treasury.

However, Exquisite Cars owner Victor Vikela challenged the reported figures, describing them as greatly exaggerated. He declined to disclose further details, citing his relationship with the late businessman, but said the amount owed to his company had been written off.

Faramatsi Motors owner Matsika also declined to discuss the matter, citing client confidentiality, while Enterprise Car Sales owner Tendai Chipanga could not be reached for comment.

The reported liabilities come as Chivayo’s family prepares to appoint an executor to oversee his estate, which is understood to include properties, business interests and luxury vehicles.

ZimLive further reported that some vehicles imported from South Africa were still held at the Beitbridge Border Post because the required import duties had not been fully paid.

Uncertainty has also been raised over the payment status and ownership of some properties associated with the businessman. These include a mansion in Harare’s Gletwyn suburb that Chivayo agreed to purchase from former police commissioner-general Augustine Chihuri for US$2.555 million in 2017.

The appointment of an executor is expected to help establish the estate’s full asset portfolio, verify outstanding obligations and determine how the reported debts will be handled.

The reported figures and claims remain subject to verification, including the confirmation of creditors’ claims and the final assessment of Chivayo’s estate.