Johane Masowe eChishanu Members Mourn Wicknell Chivayo as Church Remembers His Contribution

Wicknell Chivayo has been remembered as a key figure in the Johane Masowe eChishanu Apostolic Church, with members saying his contribution to the religious community will be difficult to replace.

The late Zimbabwean businessman was honoured during his funeral service in Harare on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, where a member of the church described him as the backbone of the sect.

Chivayo died in a helicopter crash on September 30 alongside his wife, Lucy Muteke, with his death prompting an outpouring of grief from family, friends, business associates and members of the church.

According to one church member, Chivayo played a significant role in supporting the religious community and his absence would leave a major gap.

“Madzibaba Wicknell was the backbone of the church,” the member said, adding that his “shoes will be difficult to fill.”

Chivayo’s role in the church

Chivayo was closely associated with the Johane Masowe eChishanu Church and was known for supporting church activities and members.

His involvement extended beyond attending religious gatherings, with members crediting him with playing an important role in the church community.

The sect was among the groups that mourned his death following the helicopter crash, with members gathering at his Harare home in the days after the tragedy to pay their respects and stand with his family.

The funeral service brought together members of the Apostolic sect alongside relatives, friends and other mourners.

Vapostori clergy led proceedings in accordance with the couple’s church traditions as Chivayo and Lucy were given a final send-off.

Chivayo and Lucy’s burial

Chivayo and Lucy are set to be buried on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare.

The family has said the couple will be laid to rest side by side in separate graves, while members of the public have been allowed to attend the funeral proceedings and pay their final respects.

Large crowds have gathered in different parts of Harare to honour the businessman and his wife as the country continues to mourn their deaths.

Chivayo was also declared a Provincial Hero, with his coffin later draped in the Zimbabwean national flag as part of the honours accorded to him.