Zimbabwe Tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and Wife Perish in Helicopter Crash
The marriage‑pair of prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke were among six people killed when a helicopter crashed near Marondera, the rural outskirts of Harare, on Wednesday evening 1 October 2026.
Chivayo, a well‑known figure for his lavish lifestyle and high‑profile government contracts, had been reported on social media and in the press for billion‑rand solar projects and alleged procurement scandals. He and his wife were travelling from Gandami in Chikomba, where their rural home was under construction, when the aircraft went down at about 17:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Kudenga Farm, roughly 40 minutes after take‑off.
A police spokesperson said all six occupants—two pilots and four passengers—were killed in the crash, but identities of the remaining passengers were not immediately disclosed. Emergency services responded quickly to the site.
The Chivayo family confirmed the deaths through a spokesperson, Herbert Chivayo, who spoke to the state broadcaster Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) and noted the devastating loss of his sons and wife.
Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the crash, with no preliminary findings released. The tragedy has drawn condolences from across the region, including Kenyan President William Ruto, who referred to the entrepreneur as a "dear friend" and highlighted his friendship and impact on African development.
Chivayo’s career was marked by public philanthropy, frequent social media displays of wealth, and a series of lucrative government contracts, notably the $172 million solar power project in Gwanda. He was never officially knighted, yet often styled himself as “Sir Wicknell.”
The crash has reignited scrutiny over high‑profile business dealings and the safety of private aircraft used by Zimbabwe’s elite. The full inquiry may shed light on whether operational or mechanical issues contributed to the fatal accident.
