CONDOLENCE messages have continued to pour in following the death of flamboyant businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy “Lulu” Muteke and four others who perished in a helicopter crash in Marondera Rural on Tuesday evening.
Police have identified the other victims as pilots Courage Mutavirwa and Calvin Tafirei Soda, and Sanelisiwe Magagula, who was also on board.
The helicopter, with six occupants, crashed at around 1700 hours on 30 September 2026. Government has confirmed there were no survivors. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says the bodies were badly burned and formal identification processes are underway.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa led Government tributes, describing the tragedy as a dark day for the nation.
In a statement from State House, President Mnangagwa said the country had lost a young, ambitious entrepreneur who believed in Zimbabwe.
Church leaders also mourned the businessman. United Family International Church (UFIC) founder Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Chivayo and his wife, extending prayers to the Chivayo and Muteke families.
Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries leader Prophet Walter Magaya and Spirit Embassy founder Prophet Uebert Angel also sent condolence messages, describing Chivayo as a generous man whose philanthropy touched many lives and calling for strength for the bereaved families.
From the business and political sector, Mabvuku legislator Cde Scott Sakupwanya, who was a close friend and business associate of Chivayo, said he had lost a brother. Presidential Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara said Zimbabwe had lost a patriotic son who supported national development.
Socialite and entrepreneur Fretz Donzvo said the nation had lost a man who inspired many ghetto youths through giving.
The arts industry also joined in mourning. Award-winning musician Jah Prayzah said he was devastated by the death of his brother and patron, while UK-based American singer Stefflon Don, who had a close relationship with the family, said she was heartbroken.
Regional leaders also sent messages of condolence. Kenyan President William Ruto and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan were among the first Heads of State to console the Chivayo family and the people of Zimbabwe, describing the crash as a tragic loss for the African business community.
Family spokesperson Mr Herbert Chivayo said mourners will gather at Chivayo’s residence in Gletwyn, Chishawasha Hills. He said more arrangements and formalities will be communicated once completed in liaison with the family.
Meanwhile, ZRP says forensic processes are expected to be completed by day end to allow burial.
