Public debate is intensifying around UK-based socialite and philanthropist Olinda Chapel following fresh allegations surrounding a fundraising initiative involving social media personality Archiford Chimombe.
The controversy began after claims surfaced that funds raised for Mr Elias Chikwava Baba veSadza through a GoFundMe campaign had not yet been handed over as expected. According to circulating reports, Olinda Chapel and her team were scheduled to release the money, but the process was allegedly halted after accusations emerged that Baba veSadza had stolen a mobile phone, an accusation many Zimbabweans are now questioning.
On social media, critics have described the timing and nature of the allegations as suspicious, suggesting the situation “does not make sense” and may have been fabricated to delay or avoid disbursing the funds. While no official evidence has been presented to support these claims, the issue has sparked widespread speculation and debate.
According to E News Zimbabwe, adding fuel to the controversy are references to a previous fundraising effort reportedly organised by Olinda Chapel around three years ago for a content creator known as Shema TV. It is alleged that more than US$8,000 was raised during that campaign, but the intended beneficiary did not receive the funds. At the time, Olinda Chapel reportedly indicated she was considering redirecting the money to other causes, a move that drew criticism from some members of the public.
Now, with the Baba veSadza matter unfolding, some Zimbabweans are revisiting that earlier case and calling for greater transparency and accountability in online fundraising initiatives. Social media users have urged Olinda Chapel to “do the right thing” and ensure that all funds raised for specific individuals are delivered to their intended recipients.
Despite the growing public scrutiny, neither Olinda Chapel nor her team has issued a detailed response addressing the latest allegations. Similarly, there has been no formal statement clarifying the status of the funds raised for Baba veSadza or the circumstances surrounding the alleged phone theft.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are calling for clear communication from all parties involved to restore public trust. The controversy also highlights broader concerns about the management of crowdfunding campaigns and the need for safeguards to ensure transparency and accountability.
For now, the question remains unresolved: what exactly is happening behind the scenes, and will those who donated see their contributions reach the intended beneficiaries?
Source: Zimtimes
