Zimbabwean singer Jah Prayzah has postponed his wedding to Rufaro Mukombe after the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, The South African reported.
The couple had planned to marry in Harare on Saturday, 3 October. Chivayo died a few days earlier in a helicopter crash in Marondera on Wednesday, 30 September.
“He was family, a brother, and someone who walked closely with us through many chapters of life,” the couple said in a statement posted on social media.
“Losing him together with Lucy in such a sudden way is a pain that is difficult to put into words,” the statement said.
Chivayo’s wife, Lucy Muteke, also died in the crash. Four other people were killed when the helicopter came down in rural Marondera.
Jah Prayzah and Rufaro said they made the decision out of love and respect. They said the delay would also give them time to grieve with their family.
The couple said the wedding would still go ahead when the time was right. They have not given a new date.
Chivayo was closely tied to the wedding plans. In July 2026, he reportedly pledged US$500 000, about R8.34 million, to legendary musician Thomas Mapfumo to perform at the ceremony.
The Herald reported that Chivayo said he would pay Mapfumo the money himself if the singer performed at the wedding.
Mapfumo’s expected appearance had drawn a lot of attention to the wedding. Many people saw it as one of the biggest events on Zimbabwe’s entertainment calendar.
The news of the delay came just days before the planned ceremony in Harare.
Chivayo was a well-known figure in Zimbabwe’s music and entertainment circles. He had close ties with several musicians, including Jah Prayzah.
The businessman was linked to many big events involving Zimbabwean performers. He was also known for openly supporting local musicians.
Zimbabwean authorities confirmed his death. President Emmerson Mnangagwa also spoke publicly about the businessman’s death.
Family members, friends and fans have continued to pay tribute to Chivayo and the others who died in the crash.
Jah Prayzah and Rufaro described Chivayo as someone who had walked with them through different stages of their lives. They said he was more than a friend to them.
The couple said they would first mourn the loss before going ahead with their wedding. No new date for the ceremony has been announced.
Source: this article is based on reporting by The South African. Image: The South African. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice Entertainment desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Rirhandzu Baloyi writes about entertainment for Tzaneen Voice. Rirhandzu covers South African music, film, TV, streaming, awards and celebrity news, from amapiano and local soapies to Showmax and Netflix releases. Stories stick to what happened, who was involved and when fans can watch or listen.