Chivayo Burial Set for Thursday 8 October: Service Open to the Public
Story By Staff Reporter
The family of businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo has announced the funeral arrangements for him and his wife, Lucy Muteke. They died in the Marondera helicopter crash on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.
Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo said the burial will be open to members of the public.
Burial Date and Venue
According to the family, the couple will be buried at Glen Forest on Thursday, 8 October, at around 14:00 hours.
Lying in State
Before the Thursday service, the bodies will lie in state at Wicknell Chivayo’s home. The family has not yet said what times the public can pay their respects there. Readers should wait for further announcements from the family.
DNA Testing Completed
The burial follows the completion of DNA testing. After a second day of testing, the family said all results were positive, which allows the affected families to collect their deceased relatives.
Five people died in the crash. Besides Chivayo and his wife, they were Senelisiwe Magagula, Captain Kelvin T. Soda and Captain Courage Mutavirwa.
Families in Agreement
Representatives of the families said that everyone involved agrees with the arrangements, so that the send-off can be peaceful.
Investigation Continues
Police and the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe are still investigating the crash. The cause has not been officially determined, and an intact black box has reportedly been recovered.
Key Details at a Glance
- Burial: Thursday, 8 October, at around 14:00 hours
- Venue: Glen Forest
- Lying in state: at Wicknell Chivayo’s home before the service
- Attendance: open to members of the public
- Source: family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo
This article will be updated if the family announces changes to the arrangements.
