Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, have died in a helicopter crash in Marondera Rural.
The fatal crash occurred on Wednesday evening near Kudenga Farm in Mashonaland East Province. Zimbabwean police confirmed that six people were aboard the helicopter, with no survivors reported.
Chivayo’s family later confirmed his death alongside that of his wife. The tragedy has since triggered mourning across Zimbabwe and beyond.
Helicopter Crashes Near Marondera
The aircraft crashed at around 5pm in the Marondera Rural area, east of Harare. Emergency teams and police officers responded to the scene shortly after the incident.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe has since recovered an intact black box from the wreckage. However, authorities have not yet established what caused the crash.
CAAZ Director General George Mashababe said the helicopter struck the ground before fuel spilled and ignited. Investigators are now examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal flight.
Chivayo and Wife Among Victims
Chivayo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, was travelling with his wife when the helicopter went down. The couple had reportedly been working on a rural home before the fatal journey.
Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths as relatives began dealing with the sudden loss. The victims’ remains were later taken to Marondera Hospital for formal procedures.
Police initially confirmed six occupants aboard the aircraft. However, reports have differed on the exact number of people inside the helicopter, with further identification continuing.
Investigations Into Crash Underway
Forensic experts and aviation investigators have been deployed to the crash site. Their work includes examining the wreckage and recovering evidence that could help establish what happened.
The recovered black box is expected to provide investigators with important information about the helicopter’s final moments. Authorities have not yet released a definitive cause of the crash.
Meanwhile, condolences have continued to reach the Chivayo family. Kenyan President William Ruto also mourned Chivayo and his wife, describing the businessman as a dear friend.
Funeral arrangements are expected to follow after the identification and formal processing of the victims’ remains.
