Prophet Walter Magaya addressed his congregation at a PHD Ministries outdoor gathering after news broke that a helicopter carrying Wicknell Chivayo had gone down. Magaya admitted he had spoken to Chivayo around 4 pm and repeatedly prayed aloud that he was wrong about what he feared had happened. The emotional moment was captured on video, showing Magaya visibly shaken as he struggled to process the unconfirmed reports.
Chivayo, a Zimbabwean tycoon, died alongside his wife and four others in the crash. The helicopter accident occurred on a day when Chivayo was expected to attend church services with Magaya. The prophet revealed that he had spoken to Chivayo only hours earlier, around 4 pm, ahead of what was supposed to be a church event. Magaya's desperation was palpable as he prayed that the news turn out to be false.
The video of Magaya's emotional address drew thousands of reactions from across the region, with many reflecting on what Chivayo meant to those around him. Social media users shared their thoughts, with some highlighting Chivayo's generosity and impact on people's lives. Chivayo had a very public and generous relationship with Magaya, gifting him a Mercedes-Benz GLS600 Maybach valued at US$450,000, along with US$100,000 in cash, in 2025.
Chivayo's gifts to Magaya and his wife were recognition of the ministry's philanthropic work. He also presented Mrs. Magaya with a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 VXR and an additional US$50,000 in cash. The outpouring of tributes and condolences for Chivayo and his family continued to grow, with many paying their respects to the tycoon and his loved ones.
The crash was later confirmed, with authorities verifying that Chivayo, his wife, and four other people on board had perished. The news sent shockwaves through the community, with many still trying to come to terms with the sudden loss of the prominent businessman. As tributes continued to pour in, Magaya's emotional address remained a poignant reminder of the impact Chivayo had on those around him.
Magaya's bond with Chivayo was well-known, and the prophet's emotional response to the news was a testament to their close relationship. The incident has sparked an outpouring of support and condolences for Magaya and the families affected by the tragedy. As the community continues to mourn, many are reflecting on Chivayo's legacy and the impact he had on those around him.
The Kenyan media, including Tuko.co.ke, has been providing updates on the incident, with many outlets sharing their own tributes and condolences for Chivayo and his family. The story has resonated with readers, who have been sharing their thoughts and memories of the tycoon on social media. As the nation continues to mourn, Chivayo's memory will live on through the countless lives he touched.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo, a Zimbabwean tycoon, died in a helicopter crash alongside his wife and four others.
- Prophet Walter Magaya had spoken to Chivayo hours before the crash and prayed that the news was false.
- Chivayo had gifted Magaya a Mercedes-Benz GLS600 Maybach valued at US$450,000 and US$100,000 in cash in 2025.
