Wicknell Chivayo: Why Pilot’s Family Was Forced to Conduct DNA Testing Before Receiving His Body

Fresh details have emerged about the difficult process that followed the death of Captain Calvin Tafirei Soda, one of five people killed in the helicopter crash involving Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo.

Soda, who was piloting the Bell 430 helicopter, died alongside Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, her aide Senelisiwe Magagula and co-pilot Captain Courage Mutavirwa when the aircraft crashed at Kudenga Farm in Marondera on September 30. The impact was followed by a fire that severely damaged the bodies, making normal visual identification difficult.

As a result, forensic procedures, including DNA identification, were required before the remains could be formally released to the families. In Soda’s case, the process had to be completed before his relatives could take custody of his remains and proceed with funeral arrangements.

After the identification process was completed, Soda’s remains were collected from Doves Funeral Services in Harare. Footage from the collection showed relatives gathered around a flag-draped casket before it was placed in a hearse for transportation to Marondera.

Soda was later laid to rest in Marondera on October 4. His funeral brought together relatives, friends, former colleagues and members of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, who remembered him as a dedicated aviator, hardworking family man and unifying figure.

The 44-year-old former Wing Commander had served in the Air Force of Zimbabwe before retiring in 2023. His brother, Charles Soda, described him as a pillar of the family who valued honesty, unity and hard work.

Soda is survived by his wife, Shamiso Faith Soda, and their children. His burial came as authorities continued investigating the circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash, with the official cause yet to be established.

https://www.tuko.co.ke/world/africa/641965-wicknell-chivayos-pilots-body-collected-family-prepares-sunday-burial/