Ruto associate Wicknell Chivayo dies in deadly copter crash

Newsflash Writer and Agencies

Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has died in a helicopter crash in Marondera, Zimbabwe, alongside six other people, according to reports from Zimbabwean media and government officials.

Chivayo, who was a close associate of President William Ruto, was reportedly travelling in the helicopter when it crashed in the Marondera rural area at about 5pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Zimbabwean Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed that the aircraft crashed and that there were no survivors.

“The Government wishes to confirm that a helicopter crash has occurred, involving one high-profile businessman, four other passengers, and two pilots,” Mangwana said.

“Current information indicates that there were no survivors in this crash.”

The Zimbabwe Republic Police also confirmed the crash and said the aircraft had seven people on board.

Chivayo’s close ties with Ruto

Zimbabwean reports identified Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, among those killed in the crash. The identities of the other victims were yet to be formally released by police.

Chivayo was a regular visitor to Kenya and had developed a highly publicised relationship with President Ruto.

He frequently shared photographs and videos of his meetings with the Kenyan President at State House, Nairobi, as well as at other locations.

Chivayo also met Ruto at State House in September, when the President hosted him for a meeting.

The Zimbabwean businessman was often seen in light moments with Ruto during his visits to Kenya, highlighting their close relationship.

The circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s crash were not immediately clear.