Popular Zim singer postpones wedding after Chivayo death: Here is why

Popular Zimbabwean musician Jah Prayzah has postponed his wedding to Rufaro Mukombe following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo.

The couple had been scheduled to get married on Saturday, 3 October, in Harare.

However, the wedding plans changed following the tragic death of Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke and four others in a helicopter crash in Marondera on Wednesday, 30 September.

Taking to social media, Jah Prayzah and Rufaro announced that they had decided to postpone the wedding following the deaths.

Why did Jah Prayzah postpone his wedding?

The singer and his fiancée said Chivayo was more than just a friend to them.

They described him as family and a brother who had walked closely with them through different chapters of their lives.

“He was family, a brother, and someone who walked closely with us through many chapters of life,” reads part of the statement.

“Losing him together with Lucy in such a sudden way is a pain that is difficult to put into words.”

The couple said the decision to postpone their wedding was made out of love and respect, while allowing them to grieve with their family.

They added that the wedding would still take place when the time was right.

The Herald reported that Chivayo said he would personally pay Mapfumo that amount if the legendary musician performed at the wedding.

It is reported that in July 2026, Chivayo pledged US$500 000 (R8.34 million) to Mapfumo to perform at Jah Prayzah’s wedding.

The decision comes as Zimbabwe continues to mourn Chivayo, who was among those killed when the helicopter crashed in rural Marondera.

Chivayo’s connection to Jah Prayzah

Chivayo was a well-known figure in Zimbabwean entertainment circles and had a close relationship with several musicians, including Jah Prayzah.

The businessman had been associated with major events involving Zimbabwean entertainers and was known for his public support of local musicians.

Jah Prayzah’s wedding had also attracted considerable attention, with legendary musician Thomas Mapfumo expected to perform at the celebration.

The wedding postponement therefore comes just days before the planned ceremony, bringing an abrupt change to what had been expected to be a major event on Zimbabwe’s entertainment calendar.

When will Jah Prayzah get married?

The couple has not announced a new wedding date.

Instead, Jah Prayzah and Rufaro said the ceremony would take place when the time was right.

Their decision comes as family, friends and fans continue to pay tribute to Chivayo and those who died in the helicopter crash.

Chivayo’s death was confirmed by Zimbabwean authorities, while President Emmerson Mnangagwa also publicly acknowledged his death.

For Jah Prayzah and Rufaro, the immediate priority appears to be mourning the loss of someone they considered part of their family before proceeding with their wedding celebrations.