Wicknell Chivayo, a Zimbabwean businessman, died in a helicopter crash on September 30, 2026, along with his wife Lucy Muteke. Chivayo was known for his extravagant lifestyle, which included expensive cars, real estate, and a private jet. Although there is no official confirmation of the total value of his assets, Chivayo himself claimed that his net worth was over $100 million, equivalent to approximately TSh 264,000,000,000.
Chivayo owned several luxurious homes, including a large house in Harare, Zimbabwe, which was previously owned by former Zimbabwean Police Commissioner, Augustine Chihuri. The house was reportedly valued at around R130 million (approximately TSh 20.9 billion). In 2026, Chivayo also showcased another luxurious home in Clifton, Cape Town, South Africa, which he claimed to have purchased for around R160 million (approximately TSh 25.51 billion). The house features four apartments, a lift, gym, and a sea view of Robben Island.
Chivayo was also known for his collection of luxury cars, which he often gifted to various individuals, including musicians, religious leaders, and others. According to reports, his car collection included a Rolls-Royce Spectre, Rolls-Royce Ghost, Rolls-Royce Phantom, Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz V-Class, Mercedes-Maybach, and a Lexus SUV. Chivayo was particularly fond of driving a white Rolls-Royce and owned many other luxury vehicles.
One of Chivayo's most prized possessions was his private Gulfstream G550 jet, which was reportedly purchased for around $34 million (approximately TSh 90,312,300,000). The private jet was part of his luxurious lifestyle, which he often showcased on social media. Chivayo's wealth was largely attributed to his business dealings and government contracts.
Chivayo's company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, in partnership with a Chinese company, secured a contract worth approximately $172.8 million (equivalent to TSh 459 billion) for the Gwanda solar energy project. Companies associated with Chivayo also reportedly secured government contracts worth nearly $1 billion, including solar energy projects, the rehabilitation of the Munyati power station, and the Gairezi power project.
Despite the revelations about his wealth, the source of some of his funds and business dealings have raised concerns. Chivayo himself had denied various allegations made against him. The exact extent of his assets and wealth remains unclear, with many reports and estimates varying widely.
Chivayo's legacy and business dealings have sparked intense debate and scrutiny, with many questioning the circumstances surrounding his wealth and business operations. As investigations and reports continue to emerge, more light will be shed on the life and times of Wicknell Chivayo, a businessman whose life of luxury and wealth ended abruptly in a helicopter crash last month.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo's net worth was estimated to be over $100 million.
- Chivayo owned a private Gulfstream G550 jet worth around $34 million.
- His companies secured government contracts worth nearly $1 billion.
