Family Reveals Why Wicknell Chivayo’s Burial Plans Have Been Put on Hold

Burial plans for Zimbabwean businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, have been put on hold as their family awaits the completion of forensic examinations and formal identification of the remains.

Chivayo and Lucy were among six people who died after the helicopter they were travelling in crashed in Marondera, Zimbabwe, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The aircraft went down at Kudenga Farm, about 70 kilometres east of Harare, while the group was travelling from Gandami in Chikomba.

The crash caused extensive damage and a fire, making it difficult for authorities to immediately identify the victims. Forensic experts have since taken over the process, with DNA testing and other examinations being conducted to establish the identities of the remains.

Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo said the relatives were waiting for the forensic process to be completed before finalising the burial arrangements. The families are expected to receive formal confirmation from the authorities before the remains can be released for burial.

Herbert also revealed that Lucy’s family had agreed to have the couple buried together. However, the joint burial cannot proceed until the identification process is completed and the necessary documentation is finalised.

The other victims of the crash have been identified as Lucy’s aide, Senelisiwe Magagula, and pilots Captain Kelvin Tafirei Soda and Captain Courage Mutavirwa. All six people aboard the helicopter died in the accident.

Meanwhile, funeral activities for some of the victims have already started as their relatives and friends gather to pay their respects. Captain Soda, one of the pilots, is scheduled to be buried on Sunday, October 4, 2026, in Marondera. His family has been holding a funeral wake in Harare ahead of the burial.

The cause of the helicopter crash remains under investigation by Zimbabwean authorities. Investigators are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the conditions during the flight and other factors that may have contributed to the crash.

Chivayo’s death has attracted widespread attention in Zimbabwe and across the region, with political leaders, business associates, sports personalities and members of the public continuing to send messages of condolence to his family.

Link; https://k24.digital/entertainment/celebrity/wicknell-chivayo-death-burial-plans-put-on-hold-as-family-awaits-forensic-results

Updatesdaily [email protected]