Ruto mourns ‘dear friend’ Wicknell Chivayo after fatal Zimbabwe helicopter crash

Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed his condolences following the death of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe.

The crash occurred at about 5pm on Wednesday, September 30, in the Marondera Rural area of Mashonaland East, east of Harare. Zimbabwean authorities confirmed that there were no survivors.

Chivayo and Muteke were among six people aboard the helicopter. The other occupants included two pilots and two additional passengers. The identities of all the victims were still being formally established by authorities as investigations continued.

Ruto described Chivayo as his “dear friend” and said his death was a painful loss to the businessman’s family, friends and those who knew him.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend, Wicknell Chivayo, together with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and the other lives lost in the helicopter crash in Zimbabwe,” Ruto said.

The Kenyan president said he would remember Chivayo for his friendship, energy and belief in the potential of the African continent.

Ruto also extended his condolences to the families of everyone who died, as well as Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe.

“May God grant Wicknell, Lucy and all those who perished eternal rest,” he said.

Chivayo, who was widely known as “Sir Wicknell”, was a prominent Zimbabwean businessman and philanthropist. He became known for his involvement in major business and infrastructure projects, his high-profile lifestyle and his relationships with senior political figures, including Mnangagwa and regional leaders.

His public profile also attracted scrutiny over his business and political connections, while he became known on social media for displaying his wealth and making expensive gifts to celebrities, religious figures and members of the public.

The cause of the crash has not yet been established, with investigations expected to determine what led to the helicopter going down.

Ruto’s tribute comes as Zimbabwe mourns Chivayo, his wife and the other victims of the crash, with messages of condolence being sent to their families.