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A custom-built Rolls-Royce Phantom commissioned by late Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has arrived in Harare, nearly three weeks after he and his wife died in a helicopter crash.
The couple died on September 30 when their helicopter crashed near Marondera, east of the Zimbabwean capital. They were buried on October 8.
Zimbabwean publication Humanitarian Post reported on Friday that the luxury vehicle arrived in Harare after spending time in international transit, with final customs clearance completed before delivery.
The publication said the Phantom was built to Chivayo’s exact specifications, featuring customised interior finishes and bespoke bodywork.
The vehicle’s estimated value varies across reports, with Business Insider Africa putting comparable Rolls-Royce Phantom models at between $550,000 and more than $800,000.
Chivayo, popularly known as Sir Wicknell, was renowned for his extravagant lifestyle, extensive luxury car collection and high-profile relationships with influential political figures.
His collection reportedly included Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Ghost models, a Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus SUVs, a Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 and a Range Rover Autobiography.
The businessman also attracted public attention for gifting expensive vehicles and cash to musicians, religious leaders and political figures, often publicising the donations on social media.
His death has since brought renewed attention to reports about outstanding payments associated with his luxury vehicle purchases.
ZimLive reported on October 20 that three luxury car dealerships in Harare were owed a combined $5.1 million for vehicles supplied to the businessman before his death.
The report listed Faramatsi Motors as being owed $2.4 million, Exquisite Cars $1.4 million and Enterprise Car Sales $1.3 million. However, Exquisite Cars owner Victor Vikela disputed the amount attributed to his company, saying outstanding balances had been written off.
Chivayo was a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s business and political circles, with interests spanning energy infrastructure and government contracts. His business dealings and political connections had also attracted scrutiny during his lifetime.
The arrival of the bespoke Phantom after his death has added another chapter to the public attention surrounding the late businessman’s wealth, lavish lifestyle and commercial dealings.
