The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, have died after a helicopter crashed in the Marondera Rural area, southeast of Harare.
The deaths were confirmed by family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo, who told Zimbabwe’s state broadcaster ZBC News that the family was struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
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“We are at a loss for words after the tragic incident,” Herbert said, according to reports citing ZBC News.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) had earlier confirmed that an aircraft crashed in Marondera Rural at around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, with six people on board.
Police said emergency teams had been dispatched to the scene, with further details expected as investigations continued.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana later confirmed that there were no survivors. He initially described the victims as including a high-profile businessman, other passengers and two pilots.
The crash occurred in Marondera district, approximately 74 kilometres southeast of Harare. Authorities and emergency personnel responded to the site as efforts began to identify the victims and establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe’s prominent business figures and was known for his high-profile lifestyle, luxury vehicles, private aviation and philanthropic activities.
He also gained recognition in Kenya through his association with President William Ruto and appearances in the country. His business interests have included energy and infrastructure projects.
In Zimbabwe, his business dealings, including the Gwanda Solar Project, have previously faced public and parliamentary scrutiny. His company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, was awarded the project in 2015, with subsequent inquiries examining aspects of the contract and payments.
Chivayo and Muteke were also active on social media, where they regularly shared moments from their travels and lifestyle.
Authorities are expected to formally identify the remaining victims and notify their families as investigations into the cause of the crash continue.
