Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, following their deaths in a helicopter crash that also claimed the lives of other people on board. In an emotional message, Mnangagwa described the tragedy as a devastating loss and revealed that Chivayo had discussed ambitious plans for Zimbabwe with him just days before the crash.
Highlights
- Mnangagwa mourned Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke.
- The couple died in a helicopter crash alongside other occupants.
- Mnangagwa said Chivayo had shared plans for Zimbabwe with him days before his death.
- He highlighted Chivayo’s philanthropy and support for vulnerable communities.
- Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
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Mnangagwa Pays Tribute
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed deep sorrow following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke.
The couple were among those killed when their helicopter crashed in Marondera Rural on Wednesday evening. Authorities have confirmed that there were no survivors, while investigations into what caused the accident continue.
In his message of condolence, Mnangagwa said the deaths had left him, his family and the country deeply shaken.
He described the loss of the couple as particularly painful given their age and the plans they still had for their family and country.
Chivayo Had Shared Plans With President
Mnangagwa revealed that Chivayo had spoken to him about several projects and ambitions for Zimbabwe shortly before his death.
According to the President, the businessman discussed some of those plans with him after a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, only a day before the fatal crash.
Mnangagwa said the plans were largely focused on improving the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans, including disadvantaged communities and war veterans.
The President portrayed Chivayo as someone who believed his business activities could contribute to broader national development.
Final Trip to Gandami
The couple’s final journey was reportedly connected to work being undertaken at Gandami, a rural area in Chikomba.
Mnangagwa said Chivayo and his family were involved in developing modern residential and community facilities in the area.
He linked the project to Zimbabwe’s wider rural development agenda, which seeks to stimulate investment, infrastructure development and economic transformation outside major urban centres.
Reports indicate that Chivayo had travelled to his rural home to check on construction work before the helicopter began its return journey.
Remembered for Philanthropy
Beyond his business interests and high-profile lifestyle, Mnangagwa highlighted Chivayo’s charitable activities.
The President said the businessman had supported people and institutions across different sectors, including politics, religion, public service, culture and sport.
He described Chivayo’s approach to philanthropy as one that reached people from different backgrounds and said his generosity had touched many lives.
Chivayo was also a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s business and social circles, with his public profile extending across the region. He was known for his close links with political leaders and for his highly visible philanthropic gestures.
Crash Investigation Underway
The circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash remain under investigation.
Zimbabwean aviation authorities have said preliminary findings showed that fuel spilled after the aircraft struck the ground before a fire broke out. However, investigators have not yet determined what caused the helicopter to crash.
There have also been differing accounts regarding the exact number and identities of those aboard, with officials and people close to the victims giving varying details as authorities work through the identification process.
Mnangagwa concluded his message by offering condolences to the Chivayo family and the families of the other victims.
He said their loved ones could find some comfort in remembering the work and service the deceased had contributed to their communities and country.
For a man whose public life was marked by ambition, controversy and generosity, Wicknell Chivayo’s sudden death leaves behind not only a grieving family, but also unanswered questions about the plans he never got to complete.
