Authorities have not yet established the cause of the crash, nor have they disclosed the flight’s origin or intended destination.
Chivayo (Zimbabwean Tycoon and Presidential Ally) Dies in Marondera Helicopter Crash
Zimbabwean businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has died in a helicopter crash in the Marondera Rural area, east of Harare. He was 43. The crash, which occurred at approximately 5pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, claimed the lives of all six people on board, including his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed the tragedy, stating that a helicopter carrying “a prominent businessman, three other passengers and two pilots” went down in rural Marondera. “Current information indicates that there were no survivors in this crash,” Mangwana said, extending “deepest condolences and prayers to the victims, their families, and their friends during this difficult time.”
Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed to ZBC News that the businessman and his wife were among the deceased, saying the family was “at a loss for words.” Zimbabwe Republic Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi also confirmed the crash, noting six people were on board.
Authorities have not yet established the cause of the crash, nor have they disclosed the flight’s origin or intended destination. Police officers were at the scene in a wooded area, and an investigation is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Chivayo was renowned for his extravagant philanthropy, distributing luxury vehicles and cash to musicians, journalists, sports organisations, religious groups, and political figures. He reportedly donated over $60 million, alongside handing out Toyota Land Cruisers, Range Rovers, and even Maybachs.
Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke
His birthday celebrations in November 2025 featured a giveaway valued at approximately $5.3 million, including six Toyota Land Cruisers to Zanu-PF’s Women’s League. Highlanders Football Club also received a $250,000 cash injection from him.
He was an unabashed supporter of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU-PF party. In March 2026, Mnangagwa praised Chivayo for donating ten ambulances and 200,000 litres of diesel worth over $400,000, describing him as having a “golden heart.”
Chivayo once declared: “I will always support President E.D. Mnangagwa and ZANU PF’s vision, and no individual, Big or Small, can instill fear in me to decide otherwise.”
His death leaves behind a complex legacy. Admirers called him “Sir Wicknell,” celebrating his rags-to-riches story and his generosity.
Critics, however, accused him of profiting from his closeness to the government and using philanthropy to burnish his image. One commentator argued that “Chivayo can never be described as a philanthropist,” citing the opacity of his wealth accumulation.
His influence extended beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. He cultivated relationships with political elites across southern Africa, including Malawi’s former president Lazarus Chakwera and Kenya’s President William Ruto.
In June 2026, his company IMC Construction Kenya was named a joint-venture partner in a consortium securing a role in the planned $2.9 billion expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Meanwhile, authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the accident. The Zimbabwe Republic Police is expected to release further details, including the identities of the other passengers, as the nation grapples with the loss of one of its most flamboyant and divisive public figures.
