ZIMBABWEAN BUSINESSMAN, WIFE AMONG SIX KILLED IN HELICOPTER CRASH

Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were among six people killed in a helicopter crash in the Marondera area of Zimbabwe.

The helicopter crashed on Wednesday evening at Kudenga Farm, about 70 kilometres east of the capital, Harare. Zimbabwean authorities later confirmed that there were no survivors.

According to the report, the aircraft had six occupants, including two pilots. The couple had reportedly been travelling from Gandami in Chikomba, where they were developing a rural home.

Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths of the businessman and his wife to Zimbabwe’s state broadcaster, ZBC.

Government spokesman Nick Mangwana said authorities were investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. The cause had not been established at the time of the report.

Chivayo was the managing director of Intratrek Zimbabwe and was known for his involvement in business, philanthropy and high-profile public engagements.

He was associated with a $172m solar power project in Gwanda and had also been involved in other business ventures in Zimbabwe.

Following news of his death, several African public figures expressed condolences. Kenyan President William Ruto described Chivayo as a friend and offered condolences to his family.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the crash and the identities of the other victims.