Prominent Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Dies in Tragic Helicopter Crash

Wicknell Chivayo, one of Zimbabwe’s best-known businessmen, has tragically died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four other individuals following a private helicopter crash in a rural area east of the capital, Harare.

According to state broadcaster ZBC, the group of six departed on Wednesday from Gandami, a rural area located in Chikomba district where Chivayo spent his childhood and where he and his wife were actively constructing a new home. The aircraft went down approximately 40 minutes after takeoff at Kudenga Farm, situated near Marondera—a town roughly 70km (45 miles) southeast of Harare. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed via X that there were "no survivors," a statement reinforced by family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo.

The Herald reported that forensic experts and investigators deployed to the crash site on Thursday morning. Senior officials, including Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, were expected to visit the location. George Mashababe, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe, stated that preliminary indications point to the helicopter’s tail striking the ground first. This impact caused a fuel spill, which subsequently ignited a fire that tracked across the ground, though Mashababe emphasized that investigations remain ongoing and a comprehensive statement will be released later.

Chivayo, who was in his 40s, served as the founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, a firm engaged in significant energy infrastructure initiatives such as the long-delayed 100-megawatt Gwanda solar project. His business ventures also expanded internationally; in June, King Mswati III awarded him Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport, paving the way for Chivayo to announce a subsequent 300MW solar project in the Southern African kingdom.

Beyond his corporate endeavors, Chivayo was widely recognized for his prominent public persona. Operating under the moniker “Sir Wicknell,” he frequently shared his opulent lifestyle across social media platforms, where his displays of luxury acquisitions and lavish gifts directed toward associates sparked a mix of public admiration and criticism. A 2025 publication by The Zimbabwean newspaper The Standard estimated that he invested roughly $9.3 million into vehicles and assorted presents for his peers. Furthermore, he maintained influential connections with numerous politicians and prominent leaders throughout Africa.

Following news of the tragedy, Kenyan President William Ruto took to X to mourn Chivayo, describing him as “a dear friend whose warmth touched many people.” Ruto highlighted Chivayo's vibrant energy, companionship, and steadfast optimism regarding Africa's potential, while extending his heartfelt condolences to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the wider population of Zimbabwe.