By Samuel Olusegun Precious
Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy “Lulu” Muteke have died in a helicopter crash in the Marondera Rural area of Zimbabwe.The helicopter went down on Wednesday evening, September 30, 2026 at around 5pm local time.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed an aircraft carrying six occupants crashed in the area, with emergency services attending the scene.
Zimbabwean authorities confirmed there were no survivors. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed to ZBC News that Chivayo and his wife were among the victims.
According to reports, the couple were travelling from Gandami, Chikomba, where they were building their rural home, when the helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm about 40 minutes after take-off. Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the bodies were badly burned and required formal identification.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana also confirmed the fatal crash involving a high-profile businessman, other passengers and pilots, stating that current information indicates no survivors.
President William Ruto of Kenya has mourned the businessman, describing him as a dear friend. In a tweet on October 1, Ruto said: “I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend, Wicknell Chivayo, together with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and the other lives lost in the helicopter crash in Zimbabwe.”
Chivayo, popularly known as Sir Wicknell, was one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent businessmen known for his lavish lifestyle, philanthropy and political connections. He had developed a highly visible relationship with President Ruto in recent months, making appearances at State House and at Ruto’s private residence in Kilgoris, where the President was seen personally driving him to a helipad.
The cause of the crash is yet to be ascertained as investigations continue.Our condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives
