Chivayo's Ex-Wife and Sister Agree to Jointly Manage Late Businessman's Estate

The former wife and sister of late Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo have agreed to jointly administer his estate. Sonja Louise Madzikanda and Esther Chivayo reached the agreement following consultations between interested family members and their legal representatives. Both women have been proposed as co-executrices of the estate. Their lawyers informed the Master of the High Court in Harare of the agreement in separate letters dated November 3 and 4, 2026.

The agreement was confirmed by Madzikanda's legal representatives, Mahuni Gidiri Law Chambers. The parties had signed a written agreement providing for Madzikanda and Esther to jointly oversee the estate. Esther's lawyers, Caleb Mucheche and Partners Law Chambers, described her as Chivayo's biological sister and next of kin. The arrangement aims to protect the interests of Chivayo's two young children while avoiding the additional expense of appointing an independent executor.

The proposed co-executrix arrangement is intended to resolve uncertainty over who will oversee Chivayo's assets and protect the interests of his minor children. Chivayo died in a helicopter crash in Marondera on September 30, 2026, alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and three other people. The crash left behind two minor children from Chivayo's previous relationship with Madzikanda. The children's welfare and financial security are among the considerations highlighted by the lawyers supporting the proposed joint administration.

The estate, registered under reference DR 5427/26, is believed to include substantial business interests and personal assets. Its administration will involve identifying and valuing the assets, establishing outstanding liabilities, considering claims against the estate, and determining how the remaining property should be distributed among legally entitled beneficiaries. The actual value of the estate has not been officially established.

One of the issues that could complicate the administration is an unresolved matrimonial property dispute between Madzikanda and the late businessman. A US$25 million claim involving the division of matrimonial property and other assets was awaiting determination by Zimbabwe's Supreme Court when Chivayo died. The proceedings were subsequently removed from the court roll following his death, pending the substitution of the deceased by an executor or executrix who could represent his estate.

The agreement between Madzikanda and Esther represents a move towards a common approach to managing the estate. However, the agreement does not amount to a completed appointment, as the Master of the High Court is yet to formally approve the proposed arrangement and issue the necessary letters of administration. The next step rests with the Master of the High Court, whose consideration and formal approval will determine whether the two women can proceed as co-executrices.

Chivayo was a prominent businessman close to Zimbabwe's ruling elite. His death has sparked interest in the administration of his estate, which is expected to involve complex legal and financial procedures. The proposed joint administration by Madzikanda and Esther aims to ensure that the interests of all parties, particularly the minor children, are protected and that the estate is managed in a fair and transparent manner.

Key points

• The proposed co-executrix arrangement aims to protect the interests of Chivayo's minor children.
• The estate's administration will involve identifying and valuing assets, establishing liabilities, and determining distribution among beneficiaries.
• An unresolved US$25 million matrimonial property dispute between Madzikanda and Chivayo awaits determination.