**Zimbabwe Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Killed in Helicopter Crash**
*Harare, Zimbabwe – October 1, 2026* – Wicknell Chivayo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, along with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four others. The incident took place in a rural area east of the capital, Harare, specifically near Marondera, approximately 70 kilometers (45 miles) southeast of the city.
According to reports from state broadcaster ZBC, the group of six had taken off from Gandami, a rural district in Chikomba where Chivayo was raised and where he and his wife were in the process of constructing a home. The helicopter reportedly crashed around 40 minutes after departure.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed via social media platform X that there were “no survivors” from the crash. Herbert Chivayo, a family spokesperson, also verified the unfortunate news to ZBC.
In the aftermath of the crash, forensic teams and investigators were dispatched to the site on Thursday morning. Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona was among the senior officials expected to visit the crash site. George Mashababe, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe, indicated that preliminary findings suggested the helicopter's tail struck the ground first, leading to a fuel spill and subsequent fire. An inquiry into the crash is currently underway, with a full report anticipated in the near future.
Wicknell Chivayo, in his 40s, was best known as the founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, a company involved in significant energy projects, including the much-anticipated 100-megawatt Gwanda solar project. His ambitions extended beyond Zimbabwe, as evidenced by his recent acquisition of Eswatini citizenship and a diplomatic passport, granted by King Mswati III. Following this, he announced plans for a 300MW solar project in Eswatini.
Chivayo was also recognized for his vibrant public persona, often referring to himself as “Sir Wicknell.” He was active on social media, where he showcased his luxurious lifestyle, sharing posts about high-end purchases and extravagant gifts to friends. His lavish spending, reportedly around $9.3 million on vehicles and gifts for associates, garnered both admiration and criticism within Zimbabwe.
His connections extended to various political figures across Africa, and he was known for cultivating relationships with influential leaders. Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his condolences on social media, describing Chivayo as “a dear friend whose warmth touched many people.” Ruto reflected on Chivayo’s energy and belief in the potential of the African continent, extending condolences to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the citizens of Zimbabwe.
The loss of Wicknell Chivayo, a notable figure in Zimbabwe’s business landscape, has sent shockwaves through the country, with many mourning the passing of a man who was both a successful entrepreneur and a larger-than-life personality. As investigations into the helicopter crash continue, the impact of this tragedy is being felt across various sectors, highlighting the fragility of life and the unexpected nature of such incidents.