The United Arab Emirates has expressed solidarity with Zimbabwe and conveyed its condolences to the families of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy “Lulu” Muteke and the other victims of the helicopter crash that claimed five lives. In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was expressing its “sincere condolences and sympathy […]

The United Arab Emirates has expressed solidarity with Zimbabwe and conveyed its condolences to the families of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy “Lulu” Muteke and the other victims of the helicopter crash that claimed five lives.

In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was expressing its “sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and to the Republic of Zimbabwe and its people over this tragedy.”

Chivayo, Muteke, security aide Senelisiwe Magagula, pilot Captain Kelvin Tafirei Soda and co-pilot Captain Courage Mutavirwa died on September 30 when their Bell 430 helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm in Marondera, Mashonaland East.

The aircraft was on a private flight from Gandami in Chikomba District to Marondera when it crashed. All five people on board died.

The remains were later transferred to Harare following forensic processing and identification, allowing funeral arrangements to proceed.

Chivayo and Muteke are now lying in state at their Gletwyn mansion following a funeral service held in Harare on Wednesday.

The couple will be buried side by side at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare on Thursday, October 8, at 2pm.

The UAE message adds to international condolences following the tragedy, as Zimbabwe prepares to bid farewell to the businessman and his wife.