Controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, known as "Sir Wicknell", died in a helicopter crash in Marondera alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, and four others.
The 45-year-old tycoon built a reputation for lavish spending, distributing an estimated US $60 million in cash, housing, and over 150 luxury vehicles.
Final Philanthropic Act Before His Death
In his final days before the crash on 30 September 2026, Chivayo purchased brand-new iPhone 18 Pro Max handsets for his children and 13 of their friends. He announced the purchase on Instagram Stories.
"Congratulations to my kids and their 13 friends... iPhone 18 Pro Max.”
Acts to Inner Circle and Family
Chivayo frequently rewarded relatives, legal advisors, and close friends. He presented his uncle, Herbert Kudakwashe Chivayo, with US $63,000 in cash—symbolising $1,000 for each year of his life—and a Toyota Fortuner to thank him for raising him after his father died.
For his legal team, Chivayo gifted Advocate Manase a 2026 Lexus GX 550 worth $220,000 plus US $250,000 cash. He gave Advocate Hashiti a 2026 Range Rover Sport Autobiography and US $500,000 cash.
He gave preacher Uebert Angel US $250,000 cash as "birthday lunch money" and gifted a custom 2026 Rolls-Royce Ghost facelift to Angel’s wife.
Chivayo also assisted musical families. He provided a US $50,000 lifeline to Mai Dembo, widow of Zimbabwean musician Leonard Dembo, after she suffered health complications.
Philanthropy Outside Zimbabwe
Chivayo extended his giving across African borders. His largest international donation was a US $1 million pledge to the Beautify Malawi Trust, led by former First Lady Gertrude Mutharika.
He supported broader economic empowerment initiatives in South Africa. Additionally, he sponsored foreign medical interventions, funding life-saving surgeries abroad in countries such as India.
Other Major Philanthropic Donations
Within Zimbabwe, Chivayo directed millions towards artists, religious groups, sports teams, and local communities.
He gifted musician Jah Prayzah over US $1.4 million in vehicles—including a Mercedes-Benz S500, Range Rover Autobiography, and Land Rover Defender—and cash.
He gave Alick Macheso a US $140,000 Mercedes-Benz GLE400d, while Sandra Ndebele, Sulumani Chimbetu, Mai Charamba, Mechanic Manyeruke, and Dorcas Moyo received luxury SUVs and cash.
In sports, Chivayo provided Scottland FC with 20 Toyota Aqua cars and a US $1 million pledge. He gave Highlanders FC an initial US $250,000, and presented football legends Peter Ndlovu and Moses Chunga with high-end cars like a BMW X6 M.
He also regularly funded school fees, housing, groceries, and emergency medical costs for vulnerable families and widows.
