Zimbabwe Businessman Wicknell Chivayo, Wife Killed in Helicopter Crash Near Harare

Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were among six people killed in a helicopter crash in the Marondera rural area, about 70 kilometres east of the capital Harare. The helicopter crashed near Kudenga Farm after the couple had visited their rural home in Gandami, where they were overseeing construction work. Two pilots and other passengers were also killed in the accident. Zimbabwean authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

Chivayo, 43, was the managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe and was known for his high-profile lifestyle, luxury car gifts and close relationships with several African political leaders. His business activities included major energy projects, including a government contract awarded to Intratrek for a solar power project in Gwanda. His political connections and government contracts had also attracted public scrutiny and criticism, while Chivayo had denied allegations of wrongdoing. Reactions to his death have been mixed, with political and business figures expressing condolences. The Civil Aviation Authority said investigators were working to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.