Why Chivayo coffin was labelled with MWC 777 and wrapped with national flag

Emotions have continued to run high in Zimbabwe as preparations to lay prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo to rest entered a solemn stage, with images of his casket emerging online and attracting widespread attention.

The casket carrying the remains of the businessman was seen draped in the Zimbabwean national flag, creating a striking and deeply symbolic image as family members, friends and mourners prepared to bid him a final farewell.

The display of the national colours appeared to reflect the significance attached to Chivayo’s life and public profile, particularly following the status accorded to him before his death.

Chivayo died on September 30 after the helicopter he was travelling in crashed at Kudenga Farm near Marondera, Zimbabwe. His wife, Lucy Muteke, was also killed in the devastating accident, together with other occupants of the aircraft.

The crash sparked a difficult recovery operation after the helicopter caught fire and was severely damaged. The condition of the remains subsequently made identification and viewing particularly challenging.

Beyond the Zimbabwean flag, Chivayo’s casket reportedly carries another detail that has drawn attention — the inscription “WMC 777.”

The marking is understood to reference the personalised registration number that had long been associated with his vehicles and became part of the businessman’s highly recognisable public image.

The combination of the national flag and the personalised inscription gives the casket a distinctly personal character, bringing together Chivayo’s connection to Zimbabwe and an aspect of the lavish lifestyle for which he was widely known.

His wife Lucy’s coffin, meanwhile, reportedly carries a different symbolic design. It draws inspiration from Mercedes-Benz, reflecting the couple’s well-known passion for luxury automobiles.

The family had earlier announced that there would be no viewing of the bodies before burial, citing the condition of the remains following the devastating helicopter crash.

The decision added another emotional dimension to the funeral arrangements, leaving mourners to rely on photographs, memories and tributes as they prepare to say goodbye.

Chivayo was a prominent and controversial figure in Zimbabwe’s business circles. His lavish lifestyle, high-profile charitable activities and public appearances frequently placed him in the spotlight, making news of his death resonate far beyond his immediate family.

Since his death, tributes have continued to emerge from friends, associates and members of the public who have remembered different aspects of his life.

As funeral preparations continue, photographs of his flag-draped casket have spread across social media, giving mourners a glimpse of the final arrangements.

For many following the proceedings, the Zimbabwean flag covering Chivayo’s casket has become one of the most striking images of his final farewell — a powerful symbol as the businessman prepares to make his last journey home.