Wickell Chivayo, a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, has died in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe at the age of 60. The incident occurred on September 30, 2026, at Kudenga Farm in Marondera, Zimbabwe, claiming the lives of Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, and four others. Chivayo built a multi-billion-dollar energy empire from humble beginnings as a street vendor in Harare. His business career spanned over two decades, during which he secured government contracts and expanded his operations across Africa.
Chivayo's business journey began in 1998 when he operated a small office in Harare's Ximex Mall, trading cellphones and SIM cards. He described this venture as the start of his business career. Chivayo later founded Intratrek Zimbabwe, which grew into an energy and infrastructure firm. The company won tenders for several high-profile projects, including the 100 MW Gwanda solar plant, the 30 MW Gairezi hydro project, and the 100 MW Munyati thermal power plant.
Chivayo's profile expanded across Africa through his political connections, including ties to Zimbabwe's ZANU-PF and President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He also had relationships with leaders in Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia, Nigeria, Malawi, South Africa, and Eswatini. Chivayo's wealth was evident through his luxury lifestyle, which included expensive cars and high-end fashion. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in Zimbabwe's national football team, which he supported financially.
Despite his success, Chivayo faced legal scrutiny throughout his career. In 2004, he was convicted of theft by false pretences. He was also involved in later fraud and money-laundering cases, which were either dismissed or resulted in acquittal. Chivayo denied allegations that his fortune derived from illegal deals, asserting that early mistakes were overcome through legitimate entrepreneurship.
In Kenya, Chivayo became known for his public friendship with President William Ruto. Earlier in 2026, reports linked his firm IMC Construction Kenya to a Chinese-led consortium for a Ksh376.42 billion expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. However, the Kenyan government denied these claims. Chivayo's business operations in Kenya were part of his broader strategy to expand his energy and infrastructure empire across Africa.
Chivayo's rise to prominence was marked by his ability to secure high-profile government contracts and build relationships with influential leaders. His business empire spanned multiple sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and construction. Chivayo's legacy is complex, with both admirers and critics acknowledging his achievements and controversies.
The cause of the helicopter crash that claimed Chivayo's life is yet to be determined. The incident has sent shockwaves across Africa, where Chivayo was known for his business acumen and philanthropic efforts. As investigations into the crash continue, tributes have been pouring in for Chivayo, who is remembered as a self-made entrepreneur who built a business empire from humble beginnings.
Key points
- Wickell Chivayo died in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe on September 30, 2026.
- Chivayo built a multi-billion-dollar energy empire through government contracts and strategic partnerships.
- His business operations spanned across Africa, with notable projects in Zimbabwe, Kenya, and other countries.
