By Archford Chirimudombo
Harare, (New Ziana) – The death of prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, in a helicopter crash on Wednesday has sparked grief, shock and widespread reflection across Zimbabwe, with tributes pouring in from members of the public.
Chivayo and Muteke were among six people who died when the helicopter they were travelling in crashed near Marondera in Mashonaland East Province at about 5pm.
The crash occurred at a farm in Marondera, and police have said efforts were underway to identify the other victims of the crash.
The cause of the crash had not been established by Thursday, as authorities continued their investigations.
Chivayo’s death has attracted considerable public attention because of the high-profile image he cultivated in his short life. He died at a young age.
In addition to his business interests, including energy and infrastructure development, he maintained a strong presence on social media, regularly showcasing luxury vehicles, private planes, international travel and his interactions with prominent figures in politics, business, sports and entertainment.
He was equally well known for his philanthropy and highly publicised acts of generosity, including donations of money and vehicles to individuals, religious organisations, sporting personalities and other beneficiaries.
For many ordinary Zimbabweans, the charitable gestures defined his public image.
“I saw some pictures from the crash site showing the helicopter lying badly damaged in a wooded area, and that was saddening,” said Charity Matambo of Chitungwiza.
“To me, he was a great man who helped many people through his philanthropic work. He played his part and will be greatly missed by some of us who cherished him.”
Others were drawn to the lifestyle he displayed online.
Erick Moyana said he had followed Chivayo’s social-media presence and admired the image of wealth and success that the businessman projected.
“The man’s social-media presence frequently showcased expensive cars, watches, travel and high-profile relationships with political, business, sporting and entertainment figures,” Moyana said.
“Although people may have different opinions about him, I admired his lifestyle.”
But his prominence on social media also attracted public scrutiny. Chivayo’s business activities and political connections previously attracted controversy, with allegations of impropriety levelled against him. He denied these, and was later cleared by the courts.
Nevertheless, news of his death prompted tributes from a broad cross-section of Zimbabweans, with many remembering his generosity while others reflected on his influence, relationships and unusual public profile.
Chivayo stood out among Zimbabwe’s wealthy businesspeople for his willingness to engage directly with the public through social media.
His posts provided followers with glimpses of his business activities, travels and relationships, while also showcasing a lifestyle centred on luxury cars, high-end accessories and frequent international travel.
Following confirmation of his death, tributes began emerging from Zimbabwe and beyond.
While opinions about Chivayo and his public life varied, his death has left the country in deep conversation about him, particularly reflection on the businessman’s achievements, controversies, generosity.
New Ziana
