Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s Family Confirms His Death in Helicopter Crash
- ZBC News reported that Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo died after a private helicopter crashed in rural Marondera on 30 September 2026
- Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed Wicknell's death alongside that of his wife, Lucy Muteke, saying the family was at a loss for words
- Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the crash involved six occupants on board the helicopter
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Source: Instagram
Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has died following a private helicopter crash in rural Marondera on the evening of 30 September 2026. His wife, Lucy Muteke, also perished in the tragic incident, which claimed the lives of passengers travelling on board the aircraft.
Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo broke the news to ZBC News, confirming the deaths and expressing that those closest to Wicknell were struggling to process the loss.
He told the Zimbabwean broadcaster that they are at a loss for words after the tragic incident.
Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner Paul Nyathi independently verified the crash, stating that the helicopter had six occupants on board at the time of the accident. No further details about the identities of the other passengers were immediately provided.
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Who was Wicknell Chivayo?
Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe's most prominent and polarising public figures, widely known for his flamboyant lifestyle, philanthropic gestures, and high-profile business dealings. His name frequently dominated Zimbabwean social media, drawing both fierce admiration and sharp criticism in equal measure.
Zimbabweans react to Wicknell Chivayo's death
News of Chivayo's passing spread rapidly across social media, prompting a wave of reactions that ranged from grief and prayer to scepticism and pointed political commentary.
@NkayiTown wrote:
"Zimbabwe is full of fake prophets; no one saw that."
@SufferingZimba asked:
"Hey, how can he die before delivering our solar project here in Gwanda?"
@mikeltdangaz quipped:
"Thomas Mapfumo will sing 🎤 'Pidigori waenda' on replay."
@Anthony_LungaJ offered a more measured take:
"Zimbabweans had very different opinions about Wicknell Chivayo. Some admired his generosity, others questioned aspects of his public life and business dealings. But death is not the time to celebrate disagreements. A family has lost a husband, a father and a loved one. Let the facts be established and let the families mourn in peace."
@itzhak_che was not immediately convinced, writing:
"Hopefully he didn't fake it"
@muzvi1 extended his condolences:
"Heartbreaking news about the helicopter crash in Marondera. Sending prayers and deepest condolences to all the families affected by this terrible tragedy. May they find strength."
Source: Instagram
Other articles on Wicknell Chivayo
Briefly News previously reported that Wicknell Chivayo revealed his new R160 million home in Clifton, Cape Town.
The publication also reported that Wicknell Chivayo visited Jacob & Co's headquarters in Geneva and spent $4.3 million (R70 369 973) on watches.
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Source: Briefly News
