Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy "Lulu" Muteke, have been laid to rest at Sahwira Glen Forest Memorial Park in Harare. The couple died in a helicopter crash in the Marondera area on September 30. The funeral cortege moved through Harare, drawing large crowds along the route. Police closed some major roads to facilitate the procession, which reflected Chivayo's larger-than-life public image.
The funeral featured two custom-designed caskets inspired by luxury cars, a fitting detail for Chivayo's collection of high-end vehicles. Chivayo's casket had a Rolls-Royce-inspired front grille and carried the marking "WMC 777", a personalised number plate associated with his fleet. Lucy's casket had a Mercedes-Benz-inspired design with the name "LULU" incorporated into its details.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared Chivayo a provincial hero, and his coffin was draped in the Zimbabwean national flag as part of the official honours. Members of the Johane Masowe yeChishanu church, to which the couple belonged, participated in the funeral rites, which included prayers and spiritual observances led by church elders.
The funeral brought together mourners from different walks of life, including family members, business associates, religious leaders, public figures, and ordinary Zimbabweans. Chivayo was the founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, an energy and infrastructure company associated with major government projects, including the proposed Gwanda Solar Project.
Chivayo's business dealings, particularly government-linked contracts, attracted scrutiny over the years. The Gwanda Solar Project faced delays and questions over its implementation, although Chivayo denied wrongdoing. He also became known for giving cars and money to musicians, sports personalities, religious figures, and other public figures.
Beyond business, Chivayo maintained close relationships with senior political figures in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in Africa. He was frequently photographed alongside Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other influential figures, while his public appearances with President William Ruto also attracted attention.
The lavish funeral marked the end of a high-profile life, with Chivayo's public image cultivated through his extensive business profile and unusually public display of wealth. His legacy will be remembered through his business ventures and philanthropic efforts, which impacted many lives in Zimbabwe and beyond.
Key points
- Wicknell Chivayo and his wife were buried in a lavish funeral in Harare, Zimbabwe.
- The couple died in a helicopter crash in the Marondera area on September 30.
- Chivayo was declared a provincial hero and his coffin was draped in the Zimbabwean national flag.
