Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who tragically died in a helicopter crash on September 30, 2026, has been granted Provincial Hero status by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This significant announcement was made today, October 7, 2026, ahead of Chivayo’s burial, which saw his coffin draped in the Zimbabwean national flag. The decision to bestow Provincial Hero status reflects Chivayo’s contributions to the ruling Zanu-PF party, religious institutions, and communities across the nation, as cited by Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Tino Machakaire.
The funeral service for Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, began at Olwen Crockery House. In a notable exception to their Johane Masowe yeChishanu faith, which customarily buries members without coffins, the couple was granted coffins for their burial at Glen Forest Cemetery.
Key Players Involved
- Wicknell Chivayo: Late Zimbabwean businessman and socialite, posthumously granted Provincial Hero status.
- Lucy Muteke: Chivayo’s late wife, also killed in the helicopter crash.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Granted Provincial Hero status to Wicknell Chivayo.
- Tino Machakaire: Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, who announced the hero status.
- Madzibaba Lawrence Katsiru: Church leader who confirmed the exception for coffins for the couple.
Event Timeline
- September 30, 2026: Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, along with three others, die in a helicopter crash at Kudenga Farm in Marondera.
- October 7, 2026: President Mnangagwa grants Wicknell Chivayo Provincial Hero status.
- October 7, 2026: Funeral service begins for Chivayo and Muteke at Olwen Crockery House, with their coffins draped in the Zimbabwean flag.
