Wickenl Chiwawo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, and his wife, Lucy Mutke, lost their lives in a helicopter accident on Wednesday in an area southeast of Harare. This news has been confirmed by the family and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Details of the Incident
According to the family spokesperson, Herbert Chiwawo, the 43-year-old businessman and his wife died in this accident, and the family is deeply affected by this tragic news. Mnangagwa stated in a statement that this sudden and unexpected death has plunged "our country, my family, and me into deep shock and sorrow."
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Chiwawo was a major supporter of Mnangagwa, securing lucrative government contracts and known for his lavish lifestyle and impressive gifts to friends and colleagues. The helicopter, which had six occupants, crashed in the rural Marondera area of Zimbabwe, and no one survived.
Reactions and Consequences
Following the incident, police officials announced that they are conducting DNA tests and other investigations to confirm the identities of the victims. Mnangagwa paid tribute to Chiwawo and his family the day after the incident, writing: "We are all deeply affected by the sudden and unexpected death of this young family." He also noted that the Chiwawo family has impacted many lives through their charitable and philanthropic activities.
Chiwawo had close ties with Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU-PF party, and he also connected with other African leaders, including Cyril Ramaphosa from South Africa and William Ruto from Kenya. Ruto wrote in a statement in memory of Chiwawo: "Wickenl was a dear and kind friend whose warmth and affection reached many people."
Chiwawo, known on social media as "Sir Wickenl," often shared pictures of himself with Zimbabwean and African leaders. He was also recognized for his luxurious lifestyle and valuable gifts to colleagues, business partners, and even his followers on social media. Critics point to these close relationships and to Chiwawo as an example of the small elite in Zimbabwe who have benefited from large government contracts.
Chiwawo consistently denied allegations of corruption but faced several legal investigations that never led to convictions. He was arrested in 2018 on charges of misusing a large advance related to a solar energy project, but five years later, a judge dismissed the case due to delays in prosecution by the authorities.
Mnangagwa spoke about Chiwawo, saying: "His generous hand reached many sectors and many individuals: in politics, religion, public service, culture, and sports." He also referred to Chiwawo's grand vision for his family, his country, and the African continent.
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