Antony Chawagarira
HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has accorded the late businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo Provincial Hero status, barely two days after he died in a helicopter crash in Marondera.
President Mnangagwa, accompanied by senior government officials, announced the conferment of the honour at the Chivayo family home in Gletwin, Harare, on Friday evening.
In a message on his official Facebook account, the President said the helicopter accident in rural Marondera had left the entire nation “numbed and in deep shock and grief.”
“Wicknell was a man of grand vision, not just for his family, but for Zimbabwe and the wider African continent. The Chivayo family’s deep patriotism and selfless philanthropy transformed numerous lives in public service, religion, culture, and sport,” said President Mnangagwa.
“In this time of national loss, we also mourn the two promising crew members and the dedicated security aide who perished alongside him. During this moment of profound heartbreak, we stand together in unity, compassion, and prayer with the bereaved families. May the Almighty comfort them and grant collective strength to our nation.”
Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire said the honour was in recognition of Chivayo’s contribution to society through various initiatives and programmes across the country.
The announcement came as family, friends, and mourners continued to gather following the deaths of Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, security aide Sanelisiwe Magagula, pilot Captain Calvin Tafirei Soda, and co-pilot Courage Mutavirwa in the helicopter crash at Kudenga Farm near Marondera on Wednesday.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe said preliminary findings indicated that the helicopter struck the ground tail-first, resulting in a fuel spillage and fire, while investigations into the cause of the crash continue.
Chivayo’s remains, along with those of the other victims, were collected for forensic examinations and DNA identification as authorities worked to formally establish their identities.
The conferment of Provincial Hero status adds to the tributes being paid to Chivayo, whose public profile extended from business and philanthropy to sport, churches, and community initiatives.
His philanthropic activities included support for individuals, sporting institutions, churches, and communities. President Mnangagwa also acknowledged the charitable contributions made by Chivayo and his family.
Chivayo’s death has prompted widespread mourning across Zimbabwe, with tributes continuing to come from political, religious, sporting, business, and community circles.
The Provincial Hero honour will now form part of the official recognition of Chivayo as preparations for his burial continue.
