Zimbabwe is in mourning following the tragic death of prominent businessman and socialite Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, and four others in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The incident, which occurred east of Harare, has sent shockwaves across the nation, with mourners, including popular musician Selmor Mtukudzi, visiting the Chivayo family home in Harare on Saturday, October 3, 2026, to pay their last respects.
Chivayo, 43, was a high-profile figure known for his lavish lifestyle and close ties to Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party. His death has also brought renewed attention to an ongoing US$25 million matrimonial and property dispute with his former wife, Sonja Madzikanda, with the Supreme Court appeal removed from the roll following his passing.
Key Players Involved
- Wicknell Chivayo: Prominent Zimbabwean businessman and socialite.
- Lucy Muteke: Chivayo’s wife, who also perished in the crash.
- Selmor Mtukudzi: Zimbabwean musician among those mourning the Chivayo family.
- Sonja Madzikanda: Chivayo’s former wife, involved in a US$25 million property dispute.
Event Timeline
- September 30, 2026: Helicopter carrying Wicknell Chivayo, his wife, and four others crashes east of Harare.
- October 3, 2026: Mourners visit the Chivayo family home in Harare.
