Zimbabwean billionaire businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, have died in a helicopter crash that claimed all six people aboard the aircraft in Marondera, eastern Zimbabwe.
The crash occurred on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in the Marondera Rural area, about 70 kilometres east of the capital, Harare. Zimbabwean authorities said there were no survivors.
Family spokesman Herbert Chivayo confirmed that the businessman and his wife were among those killed, telling the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) that the family was struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
“We are at a loss for words after the tragic news,” he said.
Government spokesman Nick Mangwana also confirmed the crash, saying the helicopter was carrying a high-profile businessman, other passengers and two pilots.
“Current information indicates that there were no survivors in this crash. We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the victims, their families and their friends during this difficult time,” Mangwana said on X.
Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesman Paul Nyathi said the aircraft had six occupants when it crashed in the Marondera area at about 5pm local time.
“The ZRP confirms a plane crash in Marondera Rural area at 1700 hours, this evening. The aircraft had six occupants. More details will be released in due course as the scene is currently being attended,” Nyathi said.
The identities of all the victims were not immediately released by police as authorities worked to formally identify those killed. Reports said the crash caused a fire and the bodies were badly burned.
Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent businessmen and was widely known for his lavish lifestyle, high-profile philanthropy and political connections. He was also known to have close ties with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party.
The cause of the crash had not been established as of Thursday, October 1, with authorities expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
