Chivayo’s death leaves R414 million dispute hanging as ex-wife takes new role

The appointment of Sonja Madzikanda as co-executrix of late businessman Wicknell Chivayo’s estate has brought renewed attention to a US$25 million (R414 million) matrimonial dispute that remained unresolved when he died.

Madzikanda will administer the estate alongside Chivayo’s sister, Esther Chivayo, following his death in a helicopter crash in Marondera on 30 September 2026.

The development creates an important legal question: what happens to her outstanding matrimonial claim, and how will it be handled during the administration of the businessman’s estate?

sonja Madzikanda: US$25 million claim remains unresolved

Madzikanda had approached the courts seeking a substantial settlement following the breakdown of her relationship with Chivayo.

According to The Southern Eye, her claim included a once-off US$25 million settlement (approximately R414 million), US$40,000 (approximately R662 400) in monthly spousal maintenance, an annual US$1 million lifestyle budget (approximately R16.56 million) and several properties in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

She also sought ownership of seven luxury vehicles and a share of business interests allegedly accumulated during their relationship.

However, Chivayo contested the claim, arguing that their customary union had not been formally registered and disputing her entitlement to the requested settlement.

The dispute had reached the Supreme Court by the time of his death.

What happens to SONJA Madzikanda’s court case?

Chivayo’s death complicated the proceedings, as he could no longer personally defend himself against the claim.

The Herald reported that the Supreme Court matter was removed from the roll following his death, pending the appointment of an executor or executrix to represent his estate.

Chivayo’s lawyer, Advocate Sylvester Hashiti, confirmed that the deceased businessman would need to be substituted by his estate’s legal representative.

The appointment of Madzikanda and Esther Chivayo could therefore allow the estate to be represented as the legal process continues.

However, the appointment does not automatically mean Madzikanda has won her matrimonial claim or that the estate must pay her US$25 million.

The outstanding dispute will still have to be addressed through the applicable legal processes.

Chivayo’s children also have an interest

The administration of the estate will also have to consider the interests of Chivayo’s two minor children with Madzikanda.

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The children are among those whose financial security and future welfare could be affected by how the estate is eventually administered.

Before any distribution takes place, the executrices are expected to establish the deceased’s assets, liabilities and legitimate claims against the estate.

The Master of the High Court will also have a supervisory role in ensuring that the estate is administered according to Zimbabwean law.

With the US$25 million dispute still unresolved, the administration of Chivayo’s estate could become a closely watched legal process.