Zimbabwean Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Dies in Helicopter Crash

Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were among six people killed when their helicopter crashed east of Harare on Wednesday.

The family spokesperson, Herbert Chivayo, confirmed the deaths. The crash occurred in the Marondera rural area, approximately 72 kilometers east of Harare, around 3:00 PM GMT. The helicopter had departed from the family home in Gandami. Government spokesman Nick Mangwana stated there were no survivors among the six occupants, including two pilots. Chivayo, 43, was known for his lavish lifestyle and close ties to Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU-PF party, often showcasing wealth through social media and public giveaways of luxury items and cash.

His business dealings, including a $172 million solar power project in Gwanda, had previously drawn scrutiny and legal disputes. He had denied allegations of wrongdoing. Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway, with aviation officials recovering the aircraft's black box. Preliminary findings suggest fuel spilled on impact, followed by a fire.