Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and wife die in helicopter crash

Wicknell Chivayo, a prominent businessman in Zimbabwe, and his wife Lucy Muteke died in a helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of all six people on board. The incident occurred in the Marondera rural area, approximately 70 kilometers east of Harare, on Wednesday evening. Police confirmed that the aircraft went down, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo expressed the family's devastation over the tragedy. The helicopter reportedly crashed at around 17:00 local time after taking off from Gandami in Chikomba, where the couple was constructing a rural home. Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi stated that two of the six occupants were pilots, but the identities of all passengers have not been fully disclosed. Government spokesman Nick Mangwana also confirmed the crash, noting that there were no survivors. Chivayo was known for his connections to various African leaders and his involvement in government contracts, including a notable $172 million solar power project in Gwanda that faced legal challenges. He had previously denied any wrongdoing related to his business dealings. Kenyan President William Ruto, who had a friendship with Chivayo, offered condolences to the families affected by the crash.