Wicknell Chivayo's sister delivered an emotional eulogy at his burial in Harare, recalling how her brother had persistently pushed her to join him on trips in the weeks leading up to his death. The sister, who lives in the UK, spoke during the joint burial service for Mr and Mrs Chivayo at Glenforest Memorial Park. She revealed that Wicknell had invited her to join him on trips to Kenya, Tanzania, and Seychelles, which she initially hesitated to join due to her child's school term.
The sister recounted how Wicknell had suggested she join him in Kenya, where he had business to attend to, during her visit to Zimbabwe. She agreed to join him, but later hesitated when he asked her to extend the trip to Tanzania. Wicknell asked her to change her flight tickets, which she eventually did. The extended family, including the children, holidayed together in Tanzania before she returned to the UK.
Just seven days after landing home, Wicknell called his sister again, this time inviting her to the Seychelles. Despite initial reservations, she agreed to join him, along with his wife Lucy and the children. The sister described the Seychelles trip as a happy time, full of warmth. However, it was only after Wicknell's death that the weight of those moments settled on her.
During the eulogy, the sister broke down in tears as she recalled the trips, unable to finish a sentence about what those holidays truly meant. Those close to the family said she had been trying to say she did not know that Wicknell was bidding her farewell. In the weeks before his passing, Chivayo had shared images from all three destinations, on yachts and private beaches, surrounded by his family.
Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy were laid to rest at Glenforest Memorial Park. His brothers Pharo and GSIX received mourners at the family's Borrowdale mansion before the service. The burial service was broadcast live by ZBC News.
The sister's emotional eulogy moved mourners to tears, providing a glimpse into Wicknell's personal life and relationships. Her speech highlighted the importance of family to Wicknell, who had been making memories with his loved ones in the weeks leading up to his death.
The funeral service also featured other emotional tributes, including a speech by Sonja Madzikanda, which focused on forgiveness and the children she shared with Chivayo. The speech was delivered by a friend on her behalf and drew praise for her composure in an extraordinarily painful moment.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo's sister delivered an emotional eulogy at his burial, recalling the trips they took together in the weeks leading up to his death.
- The sister initially hesitated to join Wicknell on the trips but eventually agreed, spending time with him and his family in Kenya, Tanzania, and Seychelles.
- The eulogy provided a glimpse into Wicknell's personal life and relationships, highlighting the importance of family to him.
