Wicknell Chivayo, a businessman whose career was defined by massive government contracts and high-profile political connections, was killed Wednesday evening in a helicopter crash approximately 70km east of Harare. Zimbabwean authorities confirmed that all six people on board, including two pilots, perished when the aircraft went down near Kudenga Farm.
Chivayo, who managed Intratrek Zimbabwe, was a polarizing figure frequently scrutinized for his involvement in lucrative state projects, including a $172 million solar power venture that sparked years of legal contention.
While he consistently denied allegations of wrongdoing regarding his business dealings, his public profile was marked by a flamboyant display of wealth and proximity to power. He notably maintained close relationships with several African heads of state, including Kenyan President William Ruto, who publicly mourned the loss.
Despite his claims of innocence regarding various corruption inquiries—including a 2025 investigation into election procurement that was ultimately closed—Chivayo remained a subject of intense public debate due to his influence over government affairs.
Police are currently investigating the cause of the crash, which occurred roughly 40 minutes after the group departed from a construction site at their rural home.
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