Zimbabwean Billionaire Wicknell Chivayo Dies in Crash

Wicknell Chivayo, the managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe, and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were killed in a helicopter crash on Wednesday evening in the Marondera rural area, approximately 70km east of Harare, Zimbabwe. The crash occurred around 5pm local time, with all six occupants confirmed dead by police and government officials.

Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo expressed the family's grief over the tragic loss. The couple was en route from Gandami in Chikomba, where they were constructing a rural home, when the helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm about 40 minutes after take-off.

The cause of the crash is currently unknown, and investigations are underway. Chivayo was known for his lavish lifestyle and philanthropy, notably involved in a $172 million solar power project in Gwanda, which faced legal disputes.

He also garnered attention for his connections with various African leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto, who expressed condolences following Chivayo's death.