President William Ruto has expressed deep sadness by the death of Zimbabwe businessman Wicknell Chivayo. He described him as a close friend after he died alongside his wife Lucy Muteke and four others in a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe. In a condolence message on Thursday, October 1, Ruto said the deaths of Chivayo, his spouse, and four others were a painful loss to their families and friends.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend, Wicknell Chivayo, together with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and others who lost their lives in the helicopter crash in Zimbabwe. Their sudden departure is a painful loss to their families, friends, and all who knew them,” said Ruto.

The President further said he will remember his friend for his friendship, energy, and belief in Africa’s potential.

“Wicknell was a dear friend whose warmth touched many people. I will remember him for his friendship, his energy, and his deep conviction in the possibilities of our continent,” he said. “May God grant Wicknell, Lucy and all those who perished eternal rest.”

The aircraft crashed at around 5 pm on Wednesday, September 30, in Marondera Rural, southeast of Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare. Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the plane had six passengers and that emergency responders were on the scene.

Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana said no one survived the tragedy. The victims identified were Chivayo and his wife, Muteke, after a family spokesperson confirmed his death, according to reports by Zimbabwean state media and international news outlets. The cause of the crash remained unclear as of Thursday, during the time of publication.

Chivayo had caught the attention of Kenyan media for his openly displayed relationship with Ruto and his frequent visits to State House.

In September 2026, the businessman announced investing US$200 million in Kenya, including in infrastructure projects. However, he did not identify the specific projects or reveal any agreements with the Kenyan government. His business ventures in Zimbabwe were in energy and infrastructure, and his public persona was also defined by lavish gifts and donations to public figures, religious leaders, and other recipients.

Ruto’s message followed the confirmation of Chivayo’s death as authorities in Zimbabwe investigated the crash.