Govt Schools Free To Accept Donations From Politically Exposed Persons, Says Minister

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo has stressed that all donations to government schools must adhere to established policy frameworks, adding that no individual or organisation, regardless of political affiliation, is exempt from these regulations.

Moyo was responding to former Member of Parliament Fadzayi Mahere, who had asked whether the Ministry permitted government schools to solicit donations from politically exposed persons (PEPs).

Her question followed a letter written on 16 September 2025 by Dudley Hall Primary School in Norton to Wicknell Chivayo, requesting financial assistance for the construction of a hostel for border learners and the purchase of a school bus.

In his response, Minister Moyo said the Ministry does not explicitly prohibit donations from politically exposed persons.

However, he stressed that any contribution must comply fully with the governing policies and procedures. Added Minister Moyo:

“The Ministry does not explicitly prohibit donations from PEPs. However, all donations, regardless of the donor’s political or social status, must be transparent, non-partisan, and in line with the Ministry’s governance and accountability standards.

“Schools are expected to follow due process and seek prior approval from relevant authorities before accepting significant donations.”

Minister Moyo added that the Ministry’s policy outlines the framework for community and stakeholder engagement, including the handling of donations.

It says all contributions must promote equitable access to quality education and must not compromise the neutrality of educational institutions.

He further said the Ministry is guided by national procurement and public finance regulations, which require transparency, accountability, and non-discrimination in all forms of support. Said Minister Moyo:

“The Ministry does not base its decisions on political affiliations. Wicknell Chivayo was approached because he’s an old student, and there’s nothing amiss about that.

“Any donation, whether from Mr Chivayo or any other individual, is subject to the same scrutiny and must align with the Ministry’s educational objectives and ethical standards.

“The perception of favouritism is regrettable and not reflective of our policy intent.”

Minister Moyo said the Ministry’s policies are designed to ensure that all Zimbabwean learners are served equally, regardless of political affiliation.

Mahere also questioned whether the request, or any resulting donation, would have been permitted had it involved an individual from the opposition. Minister Moyo said:

“Yes, provided the donation adheres to the Ministry’s guidelines and does not seek to politicise the educational environment.

“Our doors are open to all well-meaning Zimbabweans and stakeholders who wish to contribute to the development of our schools in good faith.”

Meanwhile, Chivayo last week announced that he was donating a 75-seater bus worth US$21,000 to Dudley Hall Primary School. He attended the school during his primary education.