Helicopter crash claims six lives
High-profile Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four other people in a private helicopter crash. State broadcaster ZBC reported that the group had departed on Wednesday from Gandami, a rural area in Chikomba district where Chivayo grew up and where he and his wife were constructing a home.
The aircraft crashed approximately 40 minutes after takeoff at Kudenga Farm near Marondera, a town about 70km (45 miles) southeast of the capital, Harare. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana stated on X that there were “no survivors”. Herbert Chivayo, speaking as a family representative, confirmed the deaths to ZBC.
Investigation and official response
Forensic experts and investigators deployed to the crash site on Thursday morning, according to the Zimbabwean newspaper The Herald. Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona was among the senior officials scheduled to visit the location.
George Mashababe, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe, stated that preliminary indications suggest the helicopter’s tail struck the ground first. He told The Herald that the impact caused fuel to spill, leading to a fire that followed the fuel path across the ground. Mashababe noted that the inquiry remains ongoing and a full statement will be released subsequently.
Business ventures and public profile
Chivayo, who was in his 40s, founded Intratrek Zimbabwe, a firm engaged in significant energy projects such as the delayed 100-megawatt Gwanda solar project. His business activities extended regionally; in June, King Mswati III granted him Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport, following which Chivayo announced intentions for a 300MW solar project in Eswatini.
Operating under the moniker “Sir Wicknell”, Chivayo frequently shared his affluent lifestyle on social media. Posts featuring luxury acquisitions and gifts generated polarized responses. A 2025 report by The Standard indicated he had expended roughly $9.3m on vehicles and presents for associates. He also maintained relationships with politicians and prominent figures across the continent.
Kenyan President William Ruto paid tribute, describing Chivayo on X as “a dear friend whose warmth touched many people” and noting his energy and vision for Africa. Ruto additionally extended condolences to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the citizens of Zimbabwe.
