Sonja Madzikanda’s potential settlement in high-profile divorce with businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo
In a high-profile split, businessman Sir Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Sonja Madzikanda are heading towards a divorce after their seven-year union. The question on everyone’s mind is how much Sonja will receive from the dissolution of their marriage.
The couple tied the knot in 2017, and it was reported that a bride price of US$50,000 was paid. However, Sonja recently took to Instagram to announce the collapse of their marriage, sharing that they have been separated for a while. While the official separation is expected to be confirmed on May 1st, there are still several matters they need to iron out through ongoing discussions.
Regarding potential claims in the divorce, a lawyer (who preferred to remain anonymous) stated that the amendments made to the New Marriages Act would not apply retroactively to their marriage. Generally, marriages in Zimbabwe operate under the out of community of property principle. However, Sonja may still be able to make a substantial claim based on assets acquired during their marriage.
If assets, such as high-end cars, are registered under a company’s name and Sonja holds shares in that company, she could potentially make a claim on those assets. Even if the assets are registered solely in Sir Wicknell’s name, Sonja may still have a basis for claiming a share if she can prove her contribution to their acquisition. In the case of multiple properties, there is a possibility that she could retain the matrimonial home while Sir Wicknell keeps the rest of the properties.
It is worth noting that even if the marriage was not formally registered, Sonja could still pursue a claim. The legal landscape surrounding divorce settlements can vary widely depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of each case.
Looking at notable divorce cases from around the world, it becomes apparent that high-profile separations often involve significant financial settlements. In South Africa, an estranged wife sought interim spousal maintenance of R95,000 per month, as well as R6 million towards her legal costs. The couple’s luxurious home boasted extravagant features, including a diamond bathtub imported from the United Arab Emirates, valued at US$19,797, and a crystal chandelier worth US$54,772.60. Additionally, they owned several luxury flats in Clifton, Cape Town, and New York, with one valued at R80 million and another at R27 million.
Similarly, in Australia, a wife claimed US$278,000 in monthly support for herself and her son, along with US$24 million worth of properties, including a Swiss villa worth US$3.3 million. She argued that she needed at least US$1.2 million annually to cover the expenses of employing four full-time caregivers for her son.
While these examples illustrate substantial divorce settlements, it is important to remember that each case is unique, influenced by various factors such as jurisdiction, assets, and contributions made during the marriage.
As the divorce proceedings between Sir Wicknell Chivayo and Sonja Madzikanda unfold, the final settlement will ultimately be determined through negotiations or, if necessary, legal proceedings. The outcome and the exact amount Sonja will receive remain uncertain, but given the circumstances and potential claims, it is expected to be a significant sum.
