Zimbabwe's Prominent Businessman Wicknell Chivayo and Wife Killed in Helicopter Crash

Wicknell Chivayo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman known for his lavish lifestyle and close ties to African presidents, has been killed in a helicopter crash that left six people dead, his family confirmed. The helicopter came down in the Marondera rural area, about 70km east of the capital, Harare, on Wednesday evening.

Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths of the businessman and his wife Lucy Muteke to state broadcaster ZBC. Saying the family was devastated by the tragedy. Chivayo was the managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe and had built a high public profile through government contracts.

Philanthropy and displays of wealth on social media.

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Among his best-known business ventures was a $172m (£128m) solar power project in Gwanda awarded to Intratrek by the state-owned Zimbabwe Power Company. The project became the subject of years of legal disputes.

Chivayo's business dealings had also drawn scrutiny from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. Which had investigated allegations of wrongdoing linked to his business dealings. He had denied these allegations, but the incident has raised questions about his business practices.

Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the police spokesperson, confirmed that a plane went down at 17:00 local time, claiming the lives of all six people on board. The victims' identities remain unknown, pending further investigation. Police are currently scrutinizing the circumstances surrounding the accident, which is still under inquiry.

State House has confirmed that President Hakainde Hichilema was among the officials who had been briefed on the helicopter's route. Which raised questions about the safety of the flight.

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Kenya's President William Ruto, who had previously appeared in public with Chivayo, paid tribute to him as a dear friend and sent condolences to the families of those killed. noting that i will remember him for his friendship. His energy and his deep conviction in the possibilities of our continent, Ruto added.

The incident has also raised questions about the safety record of helicopter services in Zimbabwe. With many calling for greater regulation of the industry.

Chivayo'It was death has also sparked an outpouring of tributes on social media. With many paying tribute to the late businessman and his philanthropic efforts.