The family of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Sonja Madzikanda, announced Friday there will be no body viewing for the couple, who were killed in a helicopter crash earlier in the week. A family spokesperson said the decision was made due to the condition of the remains.
Speaking to mourners at the couple’s residence in Harare, family spokesperson Hebert Chivayo confirmed the funeral arrangements. He stated that the remains of the deceased were severely fragmented in the crash, making a public viewing impossible.
The incident occurred on Thursday when a helicopter carrying four people crashed in the Mhondoro area, southwest of Harare. The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed four fatalities in the crash, identifying the victims as Wicknell Chivayo, Sonja Madzikanda, a pilot, and a fourth individual. Authorities have not yet released the names of the other two victims pending notification of next of kin.
Officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Emergency services and investigators were dispatched to the scene shortly after the incident was reported. No further details about the flight’s origin or destination have been officially released.
Wicknell Chivayo was a prominent and often-discussed figure in Zimbabwe’s business sector, primarily known for his company Intratrek Zimbabwe, which was involved in large-scale energy projects.
The family has scheduled a joint funeral service for the couple, with burial expected to take place over the weekend. Additional details regarding the service will be shared directly with family and invited guests, according to the spokesperson.
