Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly mourned the death of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who died in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe on September 30, 2026, along with his wife Lucy Muteke. The private helicopter, carrying between six and seven occupants, crashed in the Marondera Rural area, east of Harare, at around 5:00 PM local time. Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that there were no survivors.
Authorities recovered severely burned bodies from the scene and have since begun formal identification processes while investigating the exact cause of the crash. President Ruto took to Facebook to share a personal tribute to Chivayo, describing him as a dear friend whose warmth touched many people. Ruto will remember Chivayo for his friendship, energy, and deep conviction in the possibilities of the African continent.
In his tribute, President Ruto conveyed his deepest condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives, to President Mnangagwa, the people of Zimbabwe, and everyone mourning this tragic loss. Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe's most prominent and controversial businessmen, widely known for his flamboyant lifestyle and close ties to political figures across the continent. His death, alongside that of his wife and several others, has sent shockwaves through both business and political circles in the region.
Ruto's post drew thousands of reactions and hundreds of comments from followers across Africa, reflecting how widely felt the loss has been. Chivayo's final Instagram post, shared shortly before he died, showed him at a religious gathering and carried the caption “The Bigger Preacher”. After news of the crash emerged, followers revisited their comments beneath the post, giving the online tribute a poignant new meaning.
Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were among those killed in the helicopter crash. The incident has sparked widespread grief, with many paying tribute to the couple on social media. President Ruto's heartfelt tribute to Chivayo has resonated with many, highlighting the impact of Chivayo's life and legacy.
The investigation into the cause of the helicopter crash is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The crash has raised concerns about aviation safety in the region, with many calling for increased measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
President Ruto's condolences have extended beyond the immediate families of the victims, addressing the broader grief felt across Zimbabwe and the African continent. The Kenyan government has offered its support to the people of Zimbabwe during this difficult time, reaffirming the strong ties between the two nations.
Key points
- President Ruto described Chivayo as a dear friend, saying he would remember him for his warmth, energy, and belief in Africa's potential.
