Chivayo, Wife Among Six Killed in Helicopter Crash

By Southerton Business Times | Marondera

Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, were among six people killed when a helicopter crashed in Marondera Rural on Wednesday evening.

The helicopter crashed at about 5 pm near Waddilove Mission, with police confirming that six people were on board and the Government reporting that there were no survivors. Chivayo's family later confirmed that the businessman and Muteke were among those who died. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths to ZBC, saying the family was devastated by the tragedy. The identities of the other four victims had not been formally released by police in the latest official updates.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the crash shortly after the incident, saying the aircraft had six occupants. “The ZRP confirms a plane crash in Marondera Rural area at 5 pm this evening. The aircraft had six occupants. More details will be released in due course as the scene is currently being attended,” Nyathi said.

Government Confirms No Survivors

Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana also confirmed the crash. Mangwana said the helicopter was carrying a high-profile businessman, other passengers and two pilots, and that there were no survivors.

“The Government wishes to confirm that a helicopter crash has occurred,” Mangwana said, extending condolences to the victims' families and friends. Police initially withheld the identities of those on board, saying next of kin had to be informed and the victims formally identified. The crash caused a fire, according to subsequent reports, complicating the identification process.

Flight From Rural Home

Initial reports indicate that Chivayo and Muteke had been at their rural property in Gandami, Chikomba, where they were reportedly overseeing construction of their home. The helicopter crashed roughly 40 minutes after take-off, according to reports citing the family. The exact cause of the crash has not been established. Emergency services attended the scene as authorities began investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Chivayo, who was 43, was one of Zimbabwe's most prominent and publicly visible businessmen. He was known for his high-profile lifestyle, philanthropy and relationships with prominent political and business figures. He and Muteke married in a high-profile ceremony in 2025.

Their deaths have prompted condolences from across the region, including from Kenyan President William Ruto, who described Chivayo as a friend. Authorities are expected to provide further information on the identities of the other victims and the investigation as the process continues.

Wicknell Chivayo helicopter crash