Harare’s Central Business District was brought to a standstill today as thousands gathered to pay their last respects to controversial Zimbabwean businessman and socialite, Wicknell Chivayo, who was laid to rest alongside his wife, Lucy ‘Lulu’ Muteke. The couple tragically perished in a helicopter crash on September 30, 2026, sparking national mourning and a flurry of social media activity. The funeral proceedings, held at Sahwira Glen Forest Memorial Park, drew a massive public turnout, with mourners expressing a mix of grief and debate surrounding Chivayo’s life and posthumous provincial hero status.
The granting of Provincial Hero status by President Mnangagwa to the flamboyant businessman has ignited considerable public discourse, with discussions intensifying around his controversial business dealings and public image. Adding to the viral moments surrounding his passing, a video showing a Zimbabwean woman kneeling to greet a row of seated men during a gathering following Chivayo’s death circulated widely, sparking debates on traditional Shona etiquette versus modern views on gender. Furthermore, an emotional video of Chivayo’s son, John, in quiet reflection at his late father’s home, and a resurfaced clip of Wicknell and his wife at a church service appearing to give their lives to Christ, have also touched many online, highlighting the human impact of the tragedy.
Key Players Involved
- Wicknell Chivayo: Prominent and controversial Zimbabwean businessman and socialite.
- Lucy ‘Lulu’ Muteke: Wife of Wicknell Chivayo, who also perished in the helicopter crash.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Granted Chivayo Provincial Hero status.
- John Chivayo: Son of Wicknell Chivayo, featured in a viral emotional video.
- Apostle Joshua Selman: Nigerian cleric whose church service Chivayo and wife attended in a resurfaced viral video.
Event Timeline
- September 30, 2026: Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, die in a helicopter crash.
- October 2, 2026: A video showing moments before Chivayo’s plane crash trends on social media.
- October 5, 2026: Video of John Chivayo, Wicknell’s son, mourning at his father’s home circulates on TikTok.
- October 6, 2026: A video of Wicknell Chivayo and his wife at a church service resurfaces.
- October 7, 2026: Photos of the prepared graves for Wicknell Chivayo and his wife surface online.
- October 8, 2026: Wicknell Chivayo and his wife are laid to rest in Harare.
