Zimbabwean authorities have launched an investigation into the helicopter crash that killed prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and other passengers near Marondera, east of Harare.
The aircraft came down in the Marondera rural area on Wednesday, September 30, with authorities initially reporting that six people were aboard. There were no survivors.
Chivayo and his wife were travelling after leaving their family home in the Gandami area when the helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm, according to reports. The site is roughly 70 kilometres east of Zimbabwe’s capital.
Zimbabwean police and aviation officials have begun examining the circumstances surrounding the accident. Forensic specialists and aviation experts have reportedly visited the crash site as investigators work to establish what caused the helicopter to go down.
Authorities investigate cause of crash
The exact cause of the accident remains unknown.
Preliminary observations from Zimbabwe’s Civil Aviation Authority indicated that the helicopter struck the ground, causing fuel to spill before a fire broke out and spread across nearby grass. Officials stressed that these findings do not yet establish why the aircraft crashed.
Investigators are also examining the aircraft’s black box for information that could help explain the final moments of the flight.
There has been some confusion over the number of people aboard the helicopter. Initial statements from police and government officials referred to six occupants, while a later police account identified five people who died, including Chivayo, Muteke and two pilots. Authorities are expected to provide further clarification as the investigation progresses.
Wicknell Chivayo among victims
Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable businessmen, with his public profile extending well beyond the country’s business community.
He became particularly well known through social media, where he regularly showcased luxury vehicles, expensive gifts and large cash donations. His public image was closely associated with philanthropy and an extravagant lifestyle.
In recent weeks, for example, he reportedly gave luxury vehicles to a religious figure and his wife. He had also made substantial cash and vehicle donations to churches and other recipients.
His death has generated reactions across political and business circles in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in Africa.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed grief over Chivayo’s death and described him as a highly philanthropic businessman. Kenyan President William Ruto, who had publicly maintained a friendship with Chivayo, also paid tribute to him and his wife.
Business career and government contracts
Chivayo was the managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe, an energy company involved in major infrastructure projects.
One of the company’s most prominent projects was a government-backed solar development in Gwanda. Intratrek was awarded a contract worth more than $170 million in 2015 to develop a 100-megawatt solar plant.
The project later became the subject of a lengthy dispute after Zimbabwe’s state power utility sought to terminate the contract over delays. In 2023, the country’s Supreme Court ruled that the agreement remained valid, while the government ordered the project to proceed again in September 2026.
Chivayo’s business dealings and close relationships with political figures had previously attracted public scrutiny. He maintained close ties with President Mnangagwa and was also known to have relationships with several other African political leaders.
A prominent but controversial figure
Beyond his business interests, Chivayo’s visibility was driven heavily by his online presence.
He frequently posted photographs and videos involving senior political figures, luxury purchases and charitable donations. His lifestyle attracted both supporters and critics, particularly in a country facing significant economic difficulties.
Reports have also noted that Chivayo had a previous criminal conviction dating back to the early 2000s. He later became involved in legal disputes connected to some of his business activities, although allegations in other cases were denied or did not result in convictions.
His death has therefore prompted discussion not only about the helicopter accident but also about the businessman he became and the relationships he developed during his career.
Investigation continues
For now, investigators are focused on determining why the helicopter crashed and identifying the factors that contributed to the fatal accident.
The Civil Aviation Authority, police and forensic specialists are expected to continue examining the wreckage and other available evidence. Officials have said more information will be released as the investigation develops.
The deaths of Chivayo, his wife and the other occupants have left families and associates mourning while authorities work to establish the circumstances behind the crash.
Until the investigation is completed, the cause of the accident remains unconfirmed.
