Zimbabwean Billionaire, Wife and Others Killed in Helicopter Crash

 

Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, have died in a helicopter crash in the Marondera area of Mashonaland East Province, about 70 kilometres east of the capital, Harare.

The crash occurred at about 5pm local time on Wednesday. Zimbabwean authorities initially reported that the aircraft was carrying six people, while a government spokesperson later described the occupants as a prominent businessman, four passengers and two pilots. Authorities subsequently clarified the number of people aboard as investigations continued. 

Chivayo’s family spokesperson, Herbert Chivayo, confirmed that the businessman and his wife were among those killed. He said the couple had been travelling with other passengers when the helicopter went down.

Government spokesman Nick Mangwana said initial information indicated that there were no survivors. Police also confirmed the crash and said efforts were underway to identify the victims. 

The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe said preliminary observations showed that the helicopter struck the ground, causing fuel to spill and ignite a fire around the crash site. Officials said the cause of the accident had not yet been established, while a black box recovered from the wreckage was being examined. 

Chivayo, who was in his 40s, was the managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe and was widely known for his lavish lifestyle, philanthropy and close relationships with prominent African political figures. His company was involved in major infrastructure projects, including a $172 million solar power project in Gwanda.

His public profile also grew through social media posts showcasing luxury vehicles, private aircraft and large cash and vehicle donations to celebrities, religious figures and other public personalities.