Revealed: Tycoon Who Owned Chivayo’s Helicopter Lost His Son in Crash This Year

Fresh information has emerged about Zimbabwean businessman Themba Nkatazo, whose aviation interests have been linked to the helicopter involved in the fatal crash that claimed the lives of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and three other people.

Reports indicate that the helicopter was owned by Nkatazo and had been chartered by Chivayo through Sky Helicopters, a private aviation company associated with the businessman. Nkatazo is known in Zimbabwe as the owner of Valley Seeds, an agricultural enterprise, although his connection to the aviation industry has attracted increased attention following the deadly accident.

His name came into the public spotlight during the funeral of Captain Calvin Tafirei Soda, one of the pilots who died in the crash. Zimbabwean Youth Minister Tino Machakaire reportedly introduced Nkatazo to mourners during the funeral, highlighting his connection to the helicopter involved in Chivayo’s final journey.

The tragedy has also brought renewed attention to Nkatazo’s family following the death of his son, Sindiso Nkatazo, popularly known as Chronic. Sindiso died in a road accident in Harare in June 2026 after reportedly travelling with a friend.

According to reports, Sindiso had married his wife, Ashley, in August 2025, meaning that he had been married for less than a year at the time of his death. His death occurred only months before the helicopter tragedy involving his father’s aviation business.

Further reports have suggested that Chivayo regularly relied on helicopters connected to Nkatazo’s aviation operations for private travel. However, Chivayo was reportedly making plans to establish his own helicopter fleet.

A video that emerged after his death showed Chivayo speaking about plans to acquire three helicopters. He was also reportedly supervising the construction of a helipad at his rural property in Chivhu, suggesting that private aviation had become an important part of his travel arrangements.

The September 30 crash near Marondera killed Chivayo, Muteke, his personal assistant Sanelisiwe Magagula, Captain Soda and co-pilot Courage Mutavirwa.

Authorities have yet to establish the exact circumstances that caused the helicopter to crash. Investigations into the accident remain ongoing as attention continues to focus on the aircraft, its operation and the events leading up to the fatal incident.

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