The family of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has confirmed that no body viewing will take place following the helicopter crash that killed him, his wife Lucy, two pilots, and a security aide on Wednesday, September 30. The announcement was made by family spokesperson and uncle Hebert Chivayo on Friday evening, October 2, at Chivayo's Gletwin mansion. President Emmerson Mnangagwa was among the mourners who had gathered to pay their condolences.
Hebert Chivayo described the conditions at the crash site at Kudenga Farm, near Marondera, as deeply distressing. The severity of the impact and the fire that followed left the victims' remains badly burnt and dismembered, making identification extremely difficult. Forensic examinations and DNA testing are now being conducted by authorities to identify and match the remains of all five people who died in the crash.
The family spokesperson addressed the question of Chivayo's estate, invoking the late businessman's own words about what should happen to his wealth. Chivayo had expressed a desire for his children to inherit most of his wealth so that they would grow up remembering him. Hebert Chivayo emphasized that the Chivayo family had no intention of contesting the estate, stating that the children are the rightful beneficiaries of their father's wealth.
Wicknell Chivayo was a high-profile personality in Zimbabwe, known for his flamboyant displays of wealth and close associations with prominent figures. His death, along with that of his wife Lucy, marked a sudden end to one of the country's most recognizable lifestyles. Chivayo's public profile frequently made headlines in Zimbabwe.
The fatal helicopter crash occurred on September 30, and the investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. The victims' families and friends have been paying their condolences at the Gletwin mansion.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa was among the dignitaries who attended the gathering to pay their condolences to the Chivayo family. The President's presence underscored the impact of Chivayo's death on the country's business and social communities. Government officials, religious leaders, and hundreds of members of the public also attended the gathering.
The burial arrangements for Wicknell Chivayo and the other victims have not yet been announced. The family has asked for time to finalize the funeral details, which will be communicated to the public in due course. The authorities continue to work on identifying the remains of the victims through forensic examinations and DNA testing.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo's family confirms no body viewing will take place following the helicopter crash.
- Forensic examinations and DNA testing are being conducted to identify the remains of the victims.
- Chivayo's children have been named as the rightful heirs to his estate.
