Wicknell Munodaani Chivayo, a renowned Zimbabwean businessman, has died in a helicopter crash in Marondera, Zimbabwe, on September 30, 2026. He was 43 years old. The helicopter, which was carrying six people, including Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, crashed, killing everyone on board. Chivayo was a prominent figure in Zimbabwe's business sector, with interests in energy, infrastructure, communications, transportation, and investment.
Chivayo's early life was marked by challenges. Born in Chivhu, Zimbabwe, he lost his father at the age of 10 and was raised by his mother in Gandami, Chivhu. Due to financial difficulties, he dropped out of school in his second year of secondary school. At 15, he started working as a clerk in a bus company, handling salaries. He later ventured into business, building his companies gradually. Chivayo claimed to have earned his first million rand at 19 and his first million dollars at 23.
One of the companies associated with Chivayo is Intratrek Zimbabwe, which focused on energy and infrastructure projects. In 2014, Intratrek was awarded a contract to build the Gwanda Solar Project, a 100-megawatt solar power project. The initial contract was valued at around $172-173 million. The project faced several years of contractual and legal disputes. In 2025, Zimbabwe's courts ruled on the contract's validity, and the government and Intratrek signed a revised agreement.
Chivayo's personal life was also subject to public attention. He married Sonja Louise Madzikanda in 2017, and they had two children together. However, their relationship ended in divorce, with Chivayo citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was finalized in 2026, with a settlement of $5 million. Chivayo later met Lucy "Lulu" Muteke, and they got married in 2025 in a lavish ceremony attended by prominent figures, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
After his marriage to Sonja ended, Chivayo began a relationship with Lulu Muteke, which became public in late 2024 and early 2025. Chivayo introduced Lulu as his "soon-to-be wife" and took her to meet President Mnangagwa at State House. The couple's marriage was marked by luxury and glamour, with Chivayo often sharing pictures of them together on social media.
Chivayo's business dealings and personal life were often in the spotlight. His companies were involved in various projects, including the Gwanda Solar Project, which was expected to be completed within 24 months. Chivayo's net worth and business earnings were not independently verified, and it is essential to distinguish between his company's contracts and his personal wealth.
The cause of the helicopter crash that claimed Chivayo's life is yet to be determined. The incident has sent shockwaves through Zimbabwe's business community, with many paying tribute to Chivayo's entrepreneurial spirit and contributions to the country's economy. Chivayo's legacy, including his business achievements and personal life, will likely continue to be a subject of discussion in the days to come.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, died in a helicopter crash on September 30, 2026.
- Chivayo's companies were involved in various projects, including the Gwanda Solar Project.
- Chivayo's personal life, including his marriages and relationships, was often in the public eye.
