A helicopter crash near Marondera in Zimbabwe on September 30, 2026, resulted in the deaths of all six people on board. According to family members and local media reports, businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy "Lulu" Muteke, were among those killed. The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the crash, which occurred at around 5 pm in the Marondera Rural area.
The police initially described the incident as a plane crash, but later clarified that it was a helicopter. The authorities did not immediately release the names of all the victims or disclose the circumstances of the crash. The police withheld identities as they worked to formally identify those killed, with reports from the scene indicating that the bodies were badly burned, making identification more difficult.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed the crash and stated that there were no survivors. "The government wishes to confirm that a helicopter crash has occurred, involving one high-profile businessman, three other passengers, and two pilots," Mangwana said. "Current information indicates that there were no survivors in this crash." Emergency teams attended the scene as investigations into the cause of the crash began.
Wicknell Chivayo was the founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, a company involved in renewable energy projects, including solar and hydroelectric power developments. He was known for his high-profile business dealings and his involvement in the long-running Gwanda Solar Project, a 100-megawatt solar project that attracted considerable public scrutiny. In 2023, Chivayo and Intratrek were acquitted of charges alleging they defrauded the Zimbabwe Power Company of $5.8 million.
Chivayo was also known for his extraordinary displays of wealth, often announcing large cash gifts and expensive cars to musicians, religious figures, and other public figures. On the morning of September 30, hours before the crash, Chivayo announced gifts to two lawyers, including a new 2026 Lexus GX 550 valued at around $220,000 and $250,000 in cash. The combined value of the announced gifts was estimated to be around $1.47 million.
Chivayo's public profile extended beyond Zimbabwe, with reports of him meeting several African presidents, including Kenya's William Ruto, Tanzania's Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Uganda's Yoweri Museveni. In August 2026, Chivayo attended the traditional engagement ceremony for President Ruto's daughter, Charlene Ruto, at the Ruto family's Intonna Heritage Farm in Kilgoris, Narok County. He was reportedly driven by President Ruto to a helipad after the ceremony.
The cause of the crash and the aircraft's departure point and intended destination have not been disclosed. Police said more details on the Marondera crash would be released as investigations continue. Chivayo's company had also been linked to a proposed expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Kenya, although Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir denied any involvement, stating that the company had not participated in the procurement process.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke were among six people killed in a helicopter crash near Marondera in Zimbabwe on September 30, 2026.
- The crash occurred at around 5 pm, and authorities have confirmed that there were no survivors.
- Chivayo was a prominent businessman with a history of high-profile deals and charitable donations.
