Antony Chawagarira
Kenyan President William Ruto has mourned Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, describing him as a dear friend following Chivayo’s death in a helicopter crash in Marondera Rural, southeast of Harare, on Wednesday evening.
Chivayo, 42, died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, two pilots, and two passengers when the helicopter crashed.
In a condolence message, President Ruto said he was deeply saddened by the deaths, describing the loss as painful for the families, friends, and all who knew the victims.
He said he would remember Chivayo for his friendship, energy, and belief in Africa’s potential.
“Wicknell was a dear friend whose warmth touched many people. I will remember him for his friendship, his energy, and his deep conviction in the possibilities of our continent,” he said.
Chivayo’s relationship with President Ruto extended beyond formal engagements; the Zimbabwean businessman had recently visited State House in Nairobi and Ruto’s private residence in Kilgoris.
He also attracted public attention for his extravagant lifestyle and widely publicised gifts of vehicles and cash to musicians, religious leaders, and sports personalities.
Chivayo maintained links with several African leaders and had publicly documented meetings with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, and Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed the helicopter crash and said that further details would be released as investigations continued.
The cause of the crash had not been announced at the time of the initial reports.
President Ruto extended his condolences to the families of all those who died, to President Mnangagwa, and to the people of Zimbabwe.
