Zimbabwean Tycoon Wicknell Chivhayo's Lavish Funeral: Rolls-Royce Caskets and Condolences Stir Controversy
Prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife tragically died in a helicopter crash, leading to an exceptionally lavish funeral featuring car-themed caskets and a US$217,000 gold coffin. Regional leaders offered condolences, reigniting scrutiny over Chivayo's controversial political connections and alleged involvement in money-laundering investigations. Meanwhile, authorities have launched a full investigation into the fatal accident.
Wicknell Chivayo, a figure known for his lavish lifestyle and deep political connections, tragically died in a helicopter crash on September 30 near Marondera. His passing, along with his wife Lucy and three others, has prompted both national mourning and widespread attention due to the extravagant funeral arrangements and the high-profile attendance of regional leaders. The incident involved a Bell 430 helicopter, registered as Z-PED and operated by Sky Helicopters Private Limited, which crashed in misty conditions at Kudenga Farm in Mashonaland East while en route from Gandami to Marondera.
In response to the tragedy, the Zimbabwean government has initiated a full investigation into the crash, aligning with international civil aviation standards. Information minister Zhemu Soda confirmed that preliminary investigations at the crash site have concluded, with the wreckage transported to Charles Prince Airport for a detailed forensic examination, which will involve international experts. A preliminary report, expected within 30 days of the accident, will delve into the wreckage, weather conditions, maintenance records, and details concerning the operator and crew, aiming to shed light on the cause of this tragic loss.
The funeral preparations for Chivayo and his wife Lucy, who will be buried side-by-side at Glen Forest Memorial in Harare on Thursday, have drawn significant public interest, mirroring Chivayo's well-known association with luxury during his lifetime. Images from the funeral parlour showcased two unique white luxury display caskets: one crafted with a Rolls-Royce grille bearing the registration WMC 777, and another featuring a Mercedes-Benz front draped with the Zimbabwean flag, both adorned with elaborate floral arrangements and candles. These car-themed caskets, a trend in luxury funerals, are estimated to cost between US$4,500 and US$7,500 each on the local market. However, sources close to the family revealed that Chivayo’s actual final resting coffin is a Malaysian-made 14-carat gold casket, valued at a staggering US$217,000, imported specifically for his burial, significantly surpassing the cost of the display caskets.
Chivayo's extensive network among political leaders across the region became evident through the influx of condolences. Kenyan President William Ruto, Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan, and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa all sent messages of condolence to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Notably, President Hassan made a secretive, brief visit to Zimbabwe on Tuesday, spending just over 30 minutes at the Chivayo home before a courtesy call on President Mnangagwa, her motorcade and military aircraft movements attracting attention despite orders against photography. Chivayo had cultivated close relationships with figures like Ruto, Hassan, Eswatini’s King Mswati III, and the presidents of Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, and Nigeria, often appearing alongside them.
The condolences from President Ramaphosa, confirmed by presidential spokesman George Charamba, are likely to reignite scrutiny of his relationship with Chivayo. Previously, in May, Chivayo had flown in the same helicopter as Mnangagwa and Ramaphosa, drawing controversy after South African media reported Chivayo was a person of interest in a money-laundering investigation in South Africa. At that time, Ramaphosa's spokesman had sought to distance the president, stating no prior knowledge of Chivayo’s presence or identity. Claims that Chivayo had previously made donations to the ruling African National Congress and met Ramaphosa privately on several occasions add further layers to this contentious association.
The themes of luxury and legal scrutiny extend beyond Wicknell's immediate funeral. At a separate funeral held in honour of Wicknell Chivayo’s late brother, prominent businessmen Joachim “G6” Chivayo and Pharaoh were seen arriving in blue and white Rolls-Royce Cullinan vehicles, respectively. These appearances drew attention as both individuals have been previously implicated in reports related to an alleged multi-million-rand gold case in South Africa, with warrants reportedly issued for their failure to appear in court, although the matter remains sub judice. This display of wealth amidst legal controversies highlights the complex public image associated with the Chivayo name and its circle.