Kenya’s President, William Ruto, pays tribute to Chivayo and wife Lucy Muteke

Kenya’s President William Ruto has mourned controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, describing him as a “dear friend” following his death in a helicopter crash.

Chivayo died alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, two pilots and a security aide when their helicopter crashed in the Marondera area east of Harare on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

In a statement posted on social media, Ruto said the deaths were a painful loss.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of my friend, Wicknell Chivayo, together with his wife, Lucy Muteke, and the other lives lost in the helicopter crash in Zimbabwe,” he wrote.

“Their sudden departure is a painful loss to their families, friends and all who knew them.

” 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.

“I convey my deepest condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives, to President Mnangagwa, the people of Zimbabwe and everyone mourning this tragic loss. May God grant Wicknell, Lucy and all those who perished eternal rest.”

Chivayo had cultivated relationships with senior political figures across the region and was repeatedly seen with Ruto at State House and at other private and official engagements in Kenya. His proximity to African leaders became a defining part of his public persona.