President William Ruto has mourned Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four others in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe.
In a condolence message, Ruto described Chivayo as a friend whose warmth touched many people, saying he would remember him for his friendship, energy and belief in Africa’s potential.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend, Wicknell Chivayo, together with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and the other lives lost in the helicopter crash in Zimbabwe,” Ruto said.
The helicopter crashed in the Marondera Rural area, east of Harare, at about 5pm on Wednesday. Zimbabwean authorities said all six people on board died, although officials initially withheld the identities of the victims. Chivayo and Muteke were later identified among those killed.
Ruto extended his condolences to the families of those who died, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Chivayo, 45, was one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent businessmen and was known for his high-profile lifestyle, philanthropy and close ties to political leaders, including Ruto. His relationship with the Kenyan President had been publicly visible through visits and engagements in Kenya.
His business career included involvement in the energy and infrastructure sectors, while his wealth and links to government contracts had also attracted public scrutiny. He denied wrongdoing in relation to allegations surrounding his business dealings and was acquitted in the Gwanda Solar Project case in 2024.
Popular Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has died in a helicopter crash in Marondera, east of Harare, on Wednesday evening.
Local reports indicate that the helicopter was carrying six people, all of whom are believed to have died in the crash.
Chivayo’s wife is also reported to have been among the passengers on board the aircraft.
However, authorities have not yet officially released the identities of the victims, with investigations into the crash underway.
Zimbabwean officials have confirmed the fatal aircraft crash and said further details, including the identities of those who died, will be provided after formal identification and notification of next of kin.
