Zimbabwe is in mourning following the tragic death of prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, in a helicopter crash in the Marondera rural area on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed that all seven people aboard the aircraft, including a high-profile businessman, four passengers, and two pilots, perished in the incident. Authorities initially reported a crash involving six individuals, with emergency services responding rapidly to the scene.
The news sent shockwaves across the nation, especially as details emerged about Chivayo’s final social media activity. Hours before the crash, Chivayo had posted a lengthy message on X (formerly Twitter) around 8:20 AM, appreciating long-standing professional and personal relationships. His last public message, which began with the words, “APPRECIATING RELATIONSHIPS BUILT OVER DECADES… SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST,” focused on two lawyers, Wilson Tatenda Manase and Sylvester Hashiti, highlighting their decades-long support. The post also indicated that he was moving on to appreciate others after a previous gift offer to Advocate Lewis Uriri SC was declined.
Key Players Involved
- Wicknell Chivayo: Prominent Zimbabwean businessman, deceased in the crash.
- Lucy Muteke: Wicknell Chivayo’s wife, also deceased in the crash.
- Nick Mangwana: Zimbabwean government spokesperson who confirmed the casualties.
Event Timeline
- September 30, 2026, 8:20 AM: Wicknell Chivayo posts his final message on X.
- September 30, 2026 (hours later): Helicopter carrying seven people, including Chivayo and his wife, crashes in Marondera, Zimbabwe.
- September 30, 2026: Government spokesperson confirms the deaths of all aboard.
