All the presidents’ man: How ‘sir’ Wicknell Chivayo rubbed shoulders with Africa’s high and mighty

Forensic investigations into the identities of the six victims of the Marondera helicopter crash continue, potentially delaying their burials, according to family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo. The crash on October 1, 2026, claimed the lives of Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, and four others - Senelisiwe Magagula, Captain Kelvin T. Soda, and Captain Courage Mutavirwa.

The extensive damage to the remains has made conventional identification methods challenging. Forensic experts are now analyzing tissue samples recovered from the crash site to match them with the victims. This process is expected to take longer than usual and may delay funeral arrangements. The incident has garnered significant attention in Zimbabwe, where Chivayo was a prominent businessman.

Authorities have not yet officially determined the cause of the crash. The families are now focusing on confirming the identities of the remains before proceeding with burial preparations. Until the forensic process is complete, the burial dates for Chivayo, Lucy, and the other victims remain uncertain.