Online Reporter
Africa Moyo
Deputy National Editor
VICE President Dr Kembo Mohadi has described businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo as a patriot whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to national development, saying Zimbabwe has been robbed of a young entrepreneur whose generosity and compassion touched thousands of lives.
In a condolence message yesterday following the deaths of Chivayo, his wife Lucy, pilots Captain Kelvin Soda and Captain Courage Mutavirwa, and aide Sanelisiwe Magagula in a helicopter crash at Kudenga Farm in Marondera on Wednesday, VP Mohadi said Zimbabwe had lost a visionary businessman and benefactor whose legacy extended far beyond the corporate world.
“It is with deep sorrow that I extend my heartfelt condolences on the tragic demise of businessman and philanthropist Mr Wicknell Chivayo and his beloved wife, Mrs Lucy Chivayo, two pilots, Captain Kelvin Soda and Captain Courage Mutavirwa, and an aide, Sanelisiwe Magagula, in the recent helicopter crash at Kudenga Farm in Marondera,” said VP Mohadi.
“I join His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, Amai Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa and the nation at large in mourning, and extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.”
The Vice President said Chivayo had distinguished himself as a patriotic Zimbabwean whose philanthropic footprint extended well beyond business.
He noted that his charitable activities had a profound impact on education, healthcare and community development, strengthening the nation’s social fabric.
Chivayo, who rose to prominence in the energy sector, became widely known in recent years for his extensive support of sport, particularly football, where he donated buses and kits to Premier Soccer League and lower division clubs, while also extending financial assistance to struggling teams.
VP Mohadi said Chivayo’s love for sport and his humility endeared him to many across society.
“He was a man of good character, humble in nature and warm in disposition, qualities that won him the affection of many throughout society,” he said.
Describing him as a young patriot, VP Mohadi said Chivayo’s life was defined by ambition, enterprise and generosity.
“He will be remembered both for his entrepreneurial spirit and for the many lives he influenced, as well as for his dedication to his country,” said VP Mohadi.
He added that Zimbabwe had lost not only a businessman but also a benefactor whose legacy of service and patriotism should endure.
VP Mohadi called for strength and comfort for all the bereaved families during this difficult period.
Police and the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe have said investigations into the cause of the crash are underway.
