A photograph of a woman believed to be Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo's ex-wife, travelling with their two young children, became an unexpected focal point for grief online after news of his death broke. The image was posted on a Facebook account under the name Sonja Louise on September 30, 2026. It showed a woman seated in first class on an aeroplane, with two children identified as John and Atarah visible nearby.
The account has not been independently verified as belonging to Chivayo's former wife, Sonja Madzikanda. However, the post quickly took on a new meaning as reports emerged that Chivayo and his wife had died in a fatal helicopter crash in a rural part of Marondera. For many who had seen the picture, the timing carried a measure of relief: the children were safe, abroad with their mother, far removed from the tragedy taking place at home.
As news of Chivayo's death spread, people began gathering in the comments section of the post to express shock and offer comfort. Many addressed their condolences directly to John and Atarah, recognising the particular weight of losing a father at such a young age. The post drew a wave of heartfelt responses from followers processing the sudden loss.
Social media users expressed concern for John Chenjera and Atarah Minana, who were not aboard the helicopter when it crashed. Their safety became a source of relief amid the grief surrounding their father’s death. Comments reflected the collective shock felt across social media, with the welfare of the two children emerging as the central concern for hundreds of people who engaged with the post.
@Zvikomborero Gracious Shaurwa wrote: expressing condolences to the children, while @Clever Tawarira said: hoping and praying that the children are safe. @Humbalisious Humbalisious shared condolences, and @Natasha Mutenga commented: hoping the kids are safe. @Dephine Gutsa wrote: feeling for John and Atarah, and @Nkosinathi Ndlovu added: offering words of comfort.
The comments section was flooded with messages of support and sympathy for the children, who are now without their parents. The outpouring of grief and support online highlights the impact of Chivayo's death on his family and community. TUKO.co.ke reported that the two young children became the focus of public sympathy after the businessman’s death.
Wicknell Chivayo and his wife died in a helicopter crash in Marondera on September 30, 2026. A photo of his ex-wife and children was shared on Facebook, drawing sympathy and condolences for the family. The incident has sent shockwaves across social media, with many expressing their grief and support for the children.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo died in a helicopter crash in Marondera with his wife.
- A photo of Chivayo's ex-wife and children was shared on Facebook, drawing sympathy online.
- The children, John and Atarah, were not on the helicopter and are safe with their mother.
