Flashy Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has reportedly splashed about Sh4.4 billion ($34 million) on a long-range Gulfstream G550 private jet, further cementing his reputation for conspicuous displays of wealth.
Chivayo, 45, who built his fortune through lucrative state-linked contracts, revealed the acquisition on social media.
In his post, he said the aircraft is capable of operating nonstop flights from Harare to destinations such as London, Paris, Milan and Singapore.
“My new Gulfstream G550 is ready for collection and coming home soon to its new owner. It is an ultra-long-range business jet known for its 6,750 nautical miles (12,500 km) range, and it carries a maximum of 19 passengers. I can travel Harare to London, Paris, Milan or Singapore nonstop,” Chivayo wrote.
Chivayo's post was later corroborated by Cleopas Mukungunugwa, a Zimbabwean blogger, who announced its arrival.
TOUCHDOWN! ✈️?? TAMBIRAi CHIREMERA CHAUYA
— C. H. MUKUNGUNUGWA (@CMukungunugwa) June 11, 2026
The US$34 MILLION Gulfstream G550 has officially touched down at the award-winning Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest aviation gateways. @wicknellchivayo
MUKURU WEMAZUVA, SIR… pic.twitter.com/10XhegK7ye
"Sir Wicknell Chivayo’s @wicknellchivayo brand new Gulfstream G550 has TOUCHED DOWN at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport!" he wrote.
Powered by twin Rolls-Royce BR700 engines, the Gulfstream G550 indeed has an intercontinental range of about 12,500 kilometres, allowing nonstop travel between continents.
The aircraft typically accommodates between 14 and 19 passengers, cruises at altitudes of up to 41,000 feet, and can reach speeds of up to 941 km/h.
Because the G550 is no longer in production, buyers rely strictly on the pre-owned market, according to Luna Jets.
But even so, a used one still costs a handsome Sh4 billion or thereabout, depending on specs.
"The price of a Gulfstream G550 is between US$26.00 and US$34.00 million for 2016 – 2020 models, the last 5 years of production," writes AircraftBluebook.
Chivayo, popularly known as “Sir Wicknell,” is widely recognised for his flamboyant lifestyle, controversial involvement in government tenders, and close ties to Zimbabwe’s political elite.
Reports indicate the 2026-acquired Gulfstream G550 was purchased pre-owned.
While very limited information exists on the ownership, multiple repositories have shown that the aircraft, bearing tail number T7-WMC, was previously owned by a US-based leasing company.
The announcement sparked mixed reactions on social media, with supporters congratulating him while critics questioned the growing display of wealth among high-profile business figures in Zimbabwe.
Beyond Zimbabwe, Chivayo has also been linked to engagements with several African leaders, including Presidents William Ruto (Kenya), Yoweri Museveni (Uganda) and Samia Suluhu (Tanzania).
His appearances at various state houses, particularly during election periods, have continued to fuel political debate and attract scrutiny across the region.
However, his public image contrasts with a controversial legal history.
In 2004, he was convicted of fraud involving R837,000 and sentenced to three years at Chikurubi Maximum Prison.
In 2015, one of his companies secured a multi-billion-dollar tender to construct a 100-megawatt solar power plant.
The Zimbabwe Power Company later paid the firm an advance of about Sh725 million (Sh5.5 million), a project that subsequently attracted significant public and political scrutiny.
Photos:Courtesy, Wicknell Chivayo via Facebook