Zimbabwe Business Tycoon and Wife Die in Fatal Helicopter Crash

Wicknell Chivayo, one of Zimbabwe’s prominent businessmen, has died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four other people after a private helicopter crashed in a rural area southeast of the capital, Harare.

The helicopter reportedly took off on Wednesday from Gandami in Chikomba District, where Chivayo grew up and was building a home with his wife. It crashed about 40 minutes later at Kudenga Farm near Marondera, approximately 70 kilometres southeast of Harare.

Zimbabwean government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed that there were no survivors. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo also confirmed the deaths.

Investigators and forensic experts were deployed to the crash site on Thursday. George Mashababe, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe, said preliminary findings indicated that the helicopter’s tail struck the ground first, causing fuel to spill and subsequently ignite.

Authorities said investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with a full report expected later.

Chivayo, who was in his 40s, founded Intratrek Zimbabwe, a company involved in major energy projects, including the long-delayed 100-megawatt Gwanda solar project.

His business interests also extended beyond Zimbabwe. In June, Eswatini’s King Mswati III granted him citizenship and a diplomatic passport. Chivayo subsequently announced plans for a 300MW solar project in the country.

He was also widely known for his lavish lifestyle and strong connections with political and influential figures across Africa. He frequently displayed luxury purchases and gifts on social media under the name “Sir Wicknell.”

Kenyan President William Ruto paid tribute to Chivayo, describing him as a dear friend and offering condolences to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Chivayo’s family and the people of Zimbabwe.

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