Zari Hassan defends her role in building wealth with late Ivan Semwanga

Ugandan socialite and businesswoman Zari Hassan has responded to critics who claim she gained her wealth through inheritance from her late former husband, Ivan Semwanga. She says she was actively involved in building their financial success from the early stages of their journey.

Zari said she worked alongside Semwanga and contributed to the growth of their businesses, insisting that her experience gives her the right to speak about financial independence and wealth creation.

The remarks come amid continued public debate over the source of her wealth, with some critics suggesting that her financial success was mainly linked to her relationship with Semwanga, who was a prominent businessman and socialite.

However, Zari maintains that her success was not simply inherited but came from years of hard work, partnership, and involvement in business ventures. She has continued to encourage people, especially women, to pursue financial freedom and build their own sources of income.

Zari and Ivan Semwanga, who passed away in 2017, were known for their high-profile lifestyle and business activities in Uganda and South Africa. The two had three children together, and Zari has previously been involved in managing some of the businesses associated with Semwanga’s legacy.

The businesswoman says her story should serve as a reminder that financial success requires effort, commitment, and personal contribution rather than relying solely on relationships or inheritance.