HARARE – Philanthropist Olinda Chapel has publicly reprimanded Bruno Furniturez owner Leo Ticha Brian Saunyama for “disgracing” a Chitungwiza sadza vendor, Mr Chikwava, who recently went viral for cooking in Harare CBD. Olinda emphasised respect for elders, cultural values, and social responsibility in response to the incident.
The controversy began when Bruno pledged $200 to Mr Chikwava but went on video admitting he handed over only $100. Bruno explained:
“I gave him $100 because I wanted to. He doesn’t work for me, so he shouldn’t expect and demand payment. He initially said he didn’t want to be posted on social media, he is confused. I don’t want to work with confused people. I only had $100 at the time, as I was yet to make sales. I do not owe him more, and the returned $100 was accepted without issue. He is not my employee, and I acted in good faith.”
Olinda Chapel responded, highlighting cultural values and offering additional support:
“Bruno, in our culture, we are everyone’s child. That’s why when we greet elders we say ‘makadii amai’ or ‘baba’. Let’s just learn to respect our elders. It comes with honour, something you could have learnt from Baba. I will add another $200 to the $1000. Tinodzidzisa zvinerunyararo. I hope wabvuma kudzidziswa.”
She also encouraged local businesses to advertise peacefully on her social media page:
“Any furniture companies please put links to advertise below my picture. My followers shop kune zodzo ne peace kwete kune ruzha.”
Social media users joined the conversation, urging humility and respect:
“Life is full of ups, downs, twists, and turns. Never use what you have to disgrace others. Life can change unexpectedly, be humble. Moreover, never accept an offer that comes with disrespect, no matter how poor or desperate you are!”
The incident has sparked a broader discussion on social responsibility, cultural values, and how wealth should be used to uplift rather than demean.
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