Zimbabwean businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has once again made headlines for his generosity — this time rewarding national hero Sirizani Butau with a brand new Toyota Fortuner and a US$50,000 cash gift in recognition of his extraordinary courage and selflessness during the tragic Mutare–Harare highway bus fire of 2021.
Sirizani Butau, a haulage truck driver, became a symbol of true heroism after risking his life to save eight passengers and a tanker driver from a burning bus following a horrific collision between a Beta Bus and a Pandela Fuel tanker on December 23, 2021, near Christmas Pass in Mutare.
As flames engulfed the wreckage, Butau ran toward the inferno, dragging victims to safety one by one. His quick thinking and fearless bravery prevented what could have been an even greater loss of life. However, his heroic actions came at a cost — he sustained severe burns to his hands and legs and spent Christmas Day in hospital, recovering from his injuries.
His selfless act quickly went viral, with Zimbabweans hailing him as a true hero and dubbing him “Spiderman” for his bold rescue. The story touched hearts nationwide and even drew recognition from President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who praised his courage and sacrifice.
Chivayo’s grand gesture — presenting Butau with a luxury vehicle and a significant financial reward — serves as a heartfelt acknowledgment that acts of bravery and compassion deserve to be celebrated and remembered.
“This is a reminder that heroes walk among us,” Chivayo said during the handover. “Sirizani showed us the meaning of humanity — risking everything to save others.”
The gift not only restores Butau’s livelihood but also stands as a national symbol of gratitude for one of Zimbabwe’s most inspiring modern-day heroes.
👏🏾 Thank you, Sirizani Butau — your courage continues to inspire a nation.
