Inside Wicknell Chivayo & wife's lavish burial in Zimbabwe

The couple were buried side by side on Thursday, weeks after they died in a helicopter crash in the Marondera area on September 30.

Zimbabwean government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed that the aircraft was carrying a high-profile businessman, three other passengers and two pilots. 

The final journey reflected the larger-than-life public image Chivayo cultivated during his lifetime.

Their funeral cortege moved through Harare as large crowds gathered along the route to catch a glimpse of the couple's final procession.

Thousands of mourners reportedly flooded parts of the city as police closed some major roads to facilitate the procession.

At the centre of the funeral were two custom-designed caskets inspired by luxury cars, a fitting detail for a businessman whose collection of high-end vehicles was a prominent part of his public image.

Chivayo's casket featured a Rolls-Royce-inspired front grille and carried the marking “WMC 777”, a personalised number plate associated with his fleet of vehicles. Lucy's casket featured a Mercedes-Benz-inspired design with the name “LULU” incorporated into its details.

Chivayo's coffin was also draped in the Zimbabwean national flag after President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared him a provincial hero. The flag formed part of the official honours accorded to him during his final send-off.

Members of the Johane Masowe yeChishanu church, to which the couple belonged, also took part in the funeral rites.

The religious rituals formed part of the church's traditional way of conducting funerals, which includes prayers and spiritual observances led by church elders. Johane Masowe yeChishanu has distinctive burial practices, with members traditionally buried without conventional coffins.

The funeral brought together mourners from different walks of life, including family members, business associates, religious leaders, public figures and ordinary Zimbabweans who had followed Chivayo's public life.

For years, Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe's most recognisable businessmen, combining an extensive business profile with an unusually public display of wealth.

He was the founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, an energy and infrastructure company associated with major government projects, including the proposed Gwanda Solar Project. His wider business interests also extended into telecommunications, petroleum and logistics. 

Chivayo frequently showcased Rolls-Royces, Mercedes-Benz Maybachs, Bentley vehicles, private aviation, designer clothing, expensive holidays and large cash gifts on social media.

He also became known for giving cars and money to musicians, sports personalities, religious figures and other public figures.

His business dealings, particularly government-linked contracts, also attracted scrutiny over the years.

The Gwanda Solar Project became one of the most prominent examples, with the project facing delays and questions over its implementation, although Chivayo denied wrongdoing. 

Beyond business, Chivayo maintained close relationships with senior political figures in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in Africa.

He was frequently photographed alongside Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other influential figures, while his public appearances with President William Ruto also attracted attention.

His proximity to political leaders became a defining part of his public profile, alongside his businesses and philanthropy.