Sonja Madzikanda, the former wife of late Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, has been appointed co-executrix of his estate, placing her at the heart of administering a fortune believed to be worth millions of US dollars. This appointment was reported by ZBC News and The Herald on November 4, 2026. Madzikanda will jointly manage the estate with Chivayo's sister, Esther Chivayo. Together, they are tasked with identifying the deceased's assets, settling outstanding debts, handling legitimate claims, and distributing what remains in line with Zimbabwean law.
Wicknell Chivayo died on September 30, 2026, in a helicopter crash in Marondera, Zimbabwe, along with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and three other occupants. His family registered his estate with the Master of the High Court roughly three weeks after his death, though no executor had been formally named until now. The appointment of Madzikanda and Esther Chivayo as co-executrices is expected to move the administration of the estate forward.
Madzikanda had filed a $25 million matrimonial claim against Chivayo before his death, a matter now awaiting resolution. Court documents show she was pursuing a one-off payment of $25 million, equivalent to approximately GH₵281.25 million, monthly spousal support of $40,000, an annual lifestyle allowance of $1 million, properties in both Harare and Johannesburg, and seven luxury vehicles.
Madzikanda argued that she and Chivayo entered into a valid customary marriage in 2017 following the completion of their lobola arrangements. However, Chivayo's legal team disputed that position before his death. The Supreme Court matter was subsequently removed from the roll pending the formal appointment of an executor to stand in for his estate.
With Sonja Madzikanda and Esther Chivayo now installed as co-executrices, the administration of the estate is expected to bring renewed scrutiny to the unresolved $25 million matrimonial claim, as the court matter can now proceed with a representative for Chivayo's estate in place. Chivayo left behind two minor children he had with Madzikanda, and their welfare is expected to form a central part of the estate's administration.
The process of administering Chivayo's estate will involve identifying his assets, settling debts, and distributing what remains according to Zimbabwean law. This process is likely to be complex, given the $25 million claim by his former wife. The estate's administration will also need to ensure the welfare of Chivayo's two minor children with Madzikanda.
The appointment of Madzikanda as co-executrix of Chivayo's estate has significant implications for the administration of his wealth. As a former wife with an active matrimonial claim, her role in managing the estate will be closely watched. The estate's administration will need to balance the competing interests of various stakeholders, including Madzikanda, Chivayo's sister Esther, and his minor children.
Key points
- Sonja Madzikanda, Wicknell Chivayo's ex-wife, has been appointed co-executrix of his multi-million estate alongside his sister Esther Chivayo.
- Madzikanda had filed a $25 million matrimonial claim against Chivayo before his death, which is now awaiting resolution.
- The administration of Chivayo's estate will involve identifying his assets, settling debts, and distributing what remains according to Zimbabwean law.
