A social media “treasure hunt” being run by Tinotenda “Tino” Tungwarara, the daughter of Presidential Investment Advisor Paul Tungwarara, has triggered widespread criticism across Zimbabwe, with many accusing the wealthy family of mocking the struggles of ordinary citizens by turning poverty into entertainment.
The challenge, which began in Harare’s Central Business District before spreading to places such as Westgate Mall and the recently opened Trabablas Interchange, involves Tino hiding cash usually around US$100 ,in public places before posting clues on social media for people to search for the money.
The hunts have attracted large crowds of desperate Zimbabweans, many of them young people and unemployed residents hoping to secure a quick financial lifeline in an economy battered by inflation, company closures and stagnant wages.
However, what may have been intended as a playful giveaway has instead ignited fierce backlash online, with critics describing the trend as “Zimbabwe’s Squid Games,” comparing it to the popular dystopian television series where poor people are forced into humiliating competitions for survival.
Public anger intensified after one of the recent money hunts reportedly involved nurses at Parirenyatwa Hospital competing for US$100, only weeks after health workers had staged industrial action demanding better salaries and improved working conditions.
Many Zimbabweans said the spectacle was degrading and insensitive at a time when public hospitals are struggling, workers are underpaid, and basic services continue to deteriorate.
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“This is an insult to poor Zimbabweans. Someone will even sell their goat just to get bus fare believing they will find the money there,” said social media user Roba Covenant.
Another citizen, Panashe Detxer Mutetwa, questioned the purpose of the exercise.
“To be honest, what help does this bring to us? It would be better to give that money to blind, disabled and vulnerable people in Harare CBD or elsewhere in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Social media platforms have been flooded with criticism, with some users accusing the political elite of being disconnected from the suffering faced by ordinary citizens.
On Reddit, one commenter described the challenge as “The Hunger Games in real life,” while another wrote: “Our suffering is a source of amusement for them.”
The controversy adds to growing scrutiny surrounding the Tungwarara family and their public displays of wealth. Earlier this year, Tinotenda Tungwarara faced backlash after videos surfaced showing her lavish shopping spree in South Africa, where she reportedly spent thousands of dollars on designer clothing and luxury goods. The videos sparked debate about inequality and political privilege in Zimbabwe.
Paul Tungwarara himself has become an increasingly controversial figure in Zimbabwean politics. The presidential advisor has frequently made headlines for distributing money at political rallies and empowerment events linked to ZANU-PF structures, actions critics say resemble patronage politics rather than genuine empowerment.
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