Let Africans win tenders: Dr. Chihombori-Quao defends Chivayo

Former African Union ambassador to the US, Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao, has publicly backed controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, emphasizing that Africa should support its own entrepreneurs over foreign investors.

Chihombori-Quao defended Chivayo, whose company, IMC Construction Kenya, has been linked in reports to the multibillion-shilling infrastructure project. She maintained that her support stems from her belief in promoting African-owned businesses, saying she has no objection to Chivayo because he is an African.

The former ambassador stated that she would rather see African businessmen win major contracts on the continent than watch those opportunities go to foreign companies.

“If he can afford it I have no problem Chivayo going to Kenya, he is African this is what we are talking about if you know you can do something to create jobs for Kenyans, I would rather get the tender than some foreigners from Europe and middle East I would like to see Chivayo take his money to different African countries create jobs and block foreigners from taking this contract. If we don’t take this contract they are coming to take it.  

The veteran Pan-Africanist argued that African governments should prioritize local entrepreneurs when awarding major contracts instead of allowing lucrative opportunities to go to foreign companies. According to her, empowering African investors would help create jobs, strengthen local economies and ensure that wealth generated from large infrastructure projects remains on the continent.

She noted that African entrepreneurs deserve greater support, particularly those investing in sectors that contribute to long-term economic growth and development. Chihombori-Quao said Africa's future depends on building strong home grown enterprises capable of competing with international firms.

Her remarks, however, come against the backdrop of firm denials by the Kenyan government regarding Chivayo's alleged involvement in the JKIA expansion project.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has dismissed claims that either Wicknell Chivayo or IMC Construction Kenya played any role in the airport expansion tender. He stated that neither the businessman nor his company participated in the bidding process for the project, contradicting reports circulating online and in sections of the media.

As the debate continues, the JKIA expansion project remains under close public scrutiny, reflecting the broader conversation about local investment, procurement integrity and the role of African businesses in driving the continent's economic transformation.