Ruto mourns Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, wife who died in helicopter crash

President William Ruto has expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife Lucy Muteke, who perished in a helicopter crash along with four others on Wednesday evening. In a heartfelt message on the social media platform X, Ruto remembered Chivayo as a dear friend whose infectious energy and unwavering belief in Africa's potential left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He emphasized that their untimely demise was an immense grief for their loved ones, friends and all who had the privilege to know them.

Ruto further conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and the people of Zimbabwe. He prayed for the souls of Chivayo, Lucy and all those who lost their lives, asking that they be granted eternal peace.

According to a family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo, the couple was traveling with four others when the helicopter tragically crashed in Marondera, a city in Mashonaland East province, located east of the capital Harare. The family expressed their utter disbelief at the news, saying, "We are at a loss for words after the tragic news."

Government spokesman Nick Mangwana confirmed the incident, stating that the helicopter carried a prominent businessman, three other passengers and two pilots. He added that the preliminary information indicated that there were no survivors in this devastating accident. Mangwana extended his deepest sympathies and prayers to the victims, their families and friends during this difficult time.

Zimbabwe police spokesman Paul Nyathi also confirmed the unfortunate event, mentioning that six people were on board the helicopter. Wicknell Chivayo, a 42-year-old prominent businessman and billionaire, was renowned for his extravagant lifestyle and close relations with top African leaders.