PROMINENT clerics Emmanuel Makandiwa and Walter Magaya have mourned businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who died alongside his wife Lucy Muteke and three others in a helicopter crash near Marondera on Wednesday.
The two church leaders were among major beneficiaries of Chivayo’s high-value gifts, which included luxury vehicles and large cash donations.
Makandiwa, the founder of United Family International Church (UFIC), and his wife Ruth recently received a 2026 Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a Mercedes-Benz G63 G-Wagon and a Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 from Chivayo.
The businessman also gave UFIC US$1 million towards the construction of its new church.
Makandiwa had initially turned down the US$1 million gift, instead offering to pray for Chivayo.
“Sir Wicknell was a man who lived not just for his own comfort or personal advancement, but was exceedingly generous,” Makandiwa said.
“Through his liberal giving, he played a remarkable role in the advancement of the Kingdom of God.”
Makandiwa said he had spent time with Chivayo and his wife shortly before their deaths.
“I thank God that we had time together at their house where we had supper and private discussions in that and previous other meetings whose purposes remain confidential,” he said.
Magaya, founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries (PHD), also issued his condolences through the church, saying the ministry was mourning with the Chivayo and Muteke families.
Magaya and his family were also beneficiaries of Chivayo’s high-value gifts.
In September 2025, Chivayo gave Magaya a Mercedes-Benz GLS600 Maybach and US$100,000, while Mrs Magaya received a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 VXR and US$50,000.
In April this year, Chivayo gifted Magaya’s son, Walter Jnr, a 2026 Lexus GX550 and pledged US$50,000 towards PHD Ministries’ activities.
“We extend our condolence to the families of Mr and Mrs Chivayo and to the families of the special crew on board that did not make it home alive,” Magaya said.
He added that Chivayo’s generosity had extended beyond himself.
“His generosity touched many lives and made a lasting difference,” he said.
“Though his race has been run, he left a mark that will echo across generations.”
Chivayo’s high-value gifts to religious leaders, politicians, musicians and other public figures have repeatedly attracted public debate, with critics questioning the purpose and implications of distributing luxury vehicles and large sums of money to influential figures.
The controversial tenderpreneur , however, defended the gifts as voluntary and said recipients were free to accept or reject them.
