President William Ruto has condoled with the family of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe.
Chivayo and Muteke were among six people killed when the helicopter crashed in the Marondera Rural area, east of Harare, on Wednesday evening.
Ruto described Chivayo as a dear friend whose warmth touched many people, saying he would remember him for his friendship, energy and belief in Africa’s potential.
Ruto also sent his condolences to the families of all those who died, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwean authorities confirmed the crash but initially withheld the identities of those on board, saying police would release the names after notifying their families. The cause of the crash remains unknown.
Chivayo, 45, was one of Zimbabwe’s best-known businessmen, gaining prominence through state contracts and a lavish public lifestyle. He was also known for his philanthropy and close association with Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party.
His business dealings, particularly in the energy sector, had attracted scrutiny over the years, although Chivayo denied wrongdoing and was acquitted in 2024 in a case linked to the Gwanda Solar Project.
In recent years, Chivayo also developed business interests in Kenya and maintained a public relationship with President Ruto.
The businessman remained active on social media before his death, frequently sharing his luxury lifestyle, charitable activities and business ventures.
