NAIROBI — Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, and other victims of the fatal helicopter crash in Zimbabwe.

Ruto described Chivayo as a close friend whose warmth, energy and belief in Africa had left a lasting impression on him.

His remarks come after Chivayo and his wife were among six people killed when a helicopter crashed in the Marondera rural area on Wednesday evening.

Zimbabwean authorities confirmed that there were no survivors.

In a condolence message, Ruto said he was “deeply saddened” by the deaths and described Chivayo as a dear friend.

“I will remember him for his friendship, his energy and his deep conviction in the possibilities of our continent,” Ruto said.

The Kenyan President conveyed his condolences to the families of all those who died, as well as Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe.

“May God grant Wicknell, Lucy and all those who perished eternal rest,” he said.

Chivayo had developed a highly visible relationship with Ruto in recent years, with the Zimbabwean businessman publicly documenting several meetings and engagements with the Kenyan president.

Their interactions included visits to State House and Ruto’s private residence in Kilgoris.

The fatal crash occurred at around 5 pm on September 30, with the helicopter carrying six people — four passengers and two pilots. Government officials said there were no survivors, while police are expected to formally identify all the victims.

Chivayo’s family has also confirmed his death, with family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo saying the family was at a loss for words following the tragedy.

Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.