A dramatic incident unfolded at Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo's Gletwin residence as social media influencer Elvido was escorted off the property during the funeral wake for the late tycoon. A viral video captured several men walking Elvido away from the home and towards the car park after he was told to leave. The reason behind Elvido's removal has not been publicly explained by anyone involved, with speculation running high among social media users.
Wicknell Chivayo, popularly referred to as "Sir Wicknell," was one of Zimbabwe's most recognizable and flamboyant public figures. He built his reputation through a combination of business dealings, political connections, and an eye-catching social media presence that regularly featured luxury vehicles, designer goods, private aircraft, and high-profile gifts to celebrities, pastors, politicians, and ordinary members of the public. His generosity attracted considerable attention across Africa.
Chivayo's passing drew widespread grief across Africa, given his outsized public profile. He died on September 30 at the age of 43, alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, when the helicopter they were traveling in crashed near Marondera, approximately 70 kilometers east of Harare. The aircraft hit the ground, spilled fuel, and caught fire on impact, severely damaging the bodies of those on board. Police confirmed that five people perished in total, including pilot Captain Calvin Tafirei Soda and co-pilot Captain Courage Mutavirwa.
DNA and forensic processes were required to formally identify the victims. Chivayo's business ventures were largely centered on Zimbabwe's energy sector, though his dealings attracted scrutiny over the years regarding government tenders and procurement. He consistently maintained his innocence, and a prior fraud conviction against him was later overturned on appeal. He often credited his Christian faith and memories of growing up in financial hardship as the driving forces behind both his ambition and his philanthropy.
Hours before his death, Chivayo posted about gifting two of his lawyers a pair of luxury vehicles and $750,000 in cash, describing it as his final major act of giving. His ties to political figures were equally prominent. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa was among his close associates, and Chivayo also maintained a publicly documented friendship with Kenyan President William Ruto. In August 2026, Chivayo shared footage of President Ruto personally driving him to his helicopter, a moment that generated significant online discussion.
The incident involving Elvido has added an unexpected dimension to an already emotionally charged period for those close to the businessman. Chivayo's family has allowed his wife to be buried with him in the same grave, following a tradition that honors their bond. As the nation mourns the loss of the prominent businessman, many are reflecting on his legacy and the impact of his philanthropic efforts on the community.
As news of the incident continues to unfold, the public remains eager for an explanation regarding Elvido's sudden removal from Chivayo's residence. While details surrounding the event remain scarce, it is clear that Wicknell Chivayo's influence extended far beyond his business dealings, touching the lives of many across the continent. His legacy will continue to be celebrated and remembered by those who knew him and those whose lives he touched through his generosity.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo's influencer friend Elvido was suddenly removed from his funeral wake.
- Chivayo died in a helicopter crash on September 30, 2026, alongside his wife.
- The incident has sparked widespread speculation online regarding the reasons behind Elvido's removal.
