Zimbabwean Businessman Linked to JKIA Deal Plans to Invest Ksh 23.6 Billion in Eswatini

Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has announced plans to invest R3 billion (about Ksh23.6 billion) in a major solar power project in Eswatini, days after his company was linked to the planned expansion of Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

The Government of Eswatini said Chivayo, through his Mauritius-based company Intratrek Holdings, has committed to financing a 300-megawatt solar power project that will be developed as an Independent Power Producer (IPP).

According to the government, the project will be built on 120 hectares of land made available by King Mswati III.

It is expected to improve Eswatini’s energy supply while supporting industrial growth and economic development.

Solar Project Expected to Boost Eswatini’s Economy

Eswatini said the investment will help strengthen the country’s energy security, create jobs and support infrastructure development.

Chivayo visited the country through arrangements made by Prince Lindani. The government said the businessman has interests in renewable energy, thermal and hydro power generation, engineering, road construction and infrastructure projects across Africa.

Also Read: Govt Sets Record Straight on JKIA Expansion Deal Linked to Controversial Zimbabwean Businessman

It also noted that Chivayo has committed more than US$200 million over the past year to humanitarian and charitable initiatives in Zimbabwe and other African countries.

“The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini welcomes strategic private-sector investment of this nature, which is expected to contribute towards economic growth, employment creation, infrastructure development and the strengthening of the Kingdom’s bilateral trade,” the government said.

Kenya denies Chivayo’s involvement in JKIA project

Chivayo’s latest investment announcement comes just days after the Kenyan government dismissed reports linking him to the planned expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

Speaking during a press briefing at Transcom House, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said Chivayo and his company, IMC Construction, have no role in the airport upgrade project.

Also Read: Meet Sir Wicknell Chivayo: Zimbabwe’s Flashiest Billionaire-in-the-Making

The CS said IMC Construction did not submit a bid and was not part of any consortium competing for the contract.

He added that all companies that participated in the tender were required to declare their joint venture partners, and none listed Chivayo or his company.

Chirchir further clarified that the bids currently under evaluation were submitted by Chinese firms, including China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and Sinohydro Corporation, dismissing claims that a Chinese-Chivayo consortium had secured the deal.

He also defended the procurement process, saying it was conducted through an open international competitive tender that closed on May 14, 2026, and stressed that no contract has been awarded or signed.

The Cabinet Secretary also corrected reports that the project would cost Ksh 375 billion, saying the value of the contract will not exceed Ksh 154.2 billion (US$1.2 billion).

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

Wicknell Chivayo. PHOTO/All Africa