Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
Sungura giant Alick Macheso has joined the nation in mourning following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy “Lulu” Muteke and three others in a helicopter crash in Marondera yesterday.
Writing on behalf of Orchestra Mberikwazvo, Macheso described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the suddenness of death, offering prayers for the Chivayo family and all those affected.
“Hazvisi nyore kutaura kana kufunga mashoko anokwana panguva yakadai. Asi tinongoti Mwari vanyaradze mhuri. Mwari vape simba kwatiri tose ticheme netariro. Mweya yavo ngaizorore murugare,” Macheso said.
He added: “Impfa nimulandi — Rufu imbavha. Inotora pasina yambiro, asi ndangariro dzemunhu dzinoramba dziri mumoyo yevapenyu.”
“Rest in peace Sir Wicknell Chivhayo and wife Lulu nevose vakatsakatika.”
According to family accounts, Chivayo and his wife spent the day at their rural home in Gandami, where they were checking on construction progress, before getting on their helicopter at about 4:20pm.
The aircraft later crashed near Waddilove Mission in Marondera.
The cause of the crash is yet to be established, with authorities investigating the incident.
Chivayo, 43, was one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable businessmen and public figures, known for his high-profile lifestyle, philanthropy, extensive social-media presence and relations with prominent figures in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
His death has triggered widespread mourning among politicians, musicians, business people and members of the public.
Macheso’s tribute adds to the emotional response from Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry, where Chivayo had become a prominent figure through his support for musicians and other creatives.
