What Happened Before Chivayo’s Helicopter Crashed? Details of His Final Journey Emerge

Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, were among six people who died when a helicopter crashed in Marondera on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Reports indicate that Chivayo and his wife had travelled to Gandami in Chikomba earlier that day to oversee construction work at their rural home. They later boarded the helicopter as they prepared to leave the area.

According to reports citing Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), the couple departed Gandami at approximately 4:20 p.m. The helicopter reportedly flew for about 40 minutes before crashing at Kudenga Farm in the Marondera area, east of Harare.

All six people aboard the aircraft died in the accident. The victims reportedly included Chivayo, his wife, two pilots and two other passengers.

Zimbabwean authorities confirmed the crash and said emergency teams and police responded to the scene. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed that there were no survivors.

The accident has drawn widespread attention because of Chivayo’s high public profile in Zimbabwe. The businessman was known for his prominent business interests, charitable activities and connections with influential figures.

By midnight, reports indicated that authorities were still at the crash site as efforts continued to identify and recover the victims. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft, its flight path and other circumstances surrounding the accident.

The exact cause of the crash had not been established at the time of reporting. Authorities are expected to release additional information as investigations progress.

Chivayo’s death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from relatives, friends, business associates and public figures. Many have remembered him for his generosity and high-profile lifestyle.

The focus now remains on establishing what caused the helicopter to crash and providing answers to the families of those who lost their lives.