President Robert Mugabe yesterday honoured Big Brother Amplified (BBA) 6 co-winner Wendall Parson, his fellow housemate Vimbai Mutinhiri along with long distance runner, Stephen Muzhingi at a colourful ceremony at State House, Harare, yesterday.
For their efforts, Muzhingi, who in May won the gruelling Comrades Marathon in South Africa for the third consecutive time, and Wendall received $50 000 each while Vimbai got $10 000. They all received their money in cash.
“The President is not a rich man, especially these days, as we are going through a rough period. I had to ask (Youth Development, Indigenisation and Empowerment minister) Saviour Kasukuwere to source a token of gifts from charitably disposed people,” said President Mugabe.
He added he was rewarding the trio as a way of motivating other youths to aim high in their endeavours.
He jokingly said there was no way Wendall, a pilot by profession, would have lost because of his interaction with angels while flying planes.
“Wendall is hardly on earth as he is usually flying in the skies being watched by angels in heaven. A man who is blessed by angels could not have lost as they are always guiding him,” he said.
However, on a serious note, the President said the duo was impressive at BBA.
“The 91 days in BBA are meant to test the power you have physically and intellectually.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
“You were both strong characters who stood by their country at all times and I am impressed,” he said. In appreciation, Muzhingi said he would dedicate next year’s race to the President.
“I never thought the President would invite me to come and see him. Next year, I am dedicating my race to him and I am confident that I will win,” said Muzhingi.
Last year, the President also honoured BBA 5 Zimbabwean representative, Munyaradzi Chidzonga, who came second and awarded him $300 000.
The event was graced by the recipients’ relatives and friends, as well as top government officials including Secretary for Media, Information and Publicity George Charamba, Education, Sport, Arts and Culture Secretary Steven Mahere and the Zimbabwe Youth Council members.
