MASVINGO – President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s helicopter was involved in a crash on Sunday during takeoff at a Masvingo airstrip, where it was scheduled to collect the Zimbabwean leader after attending a Zanu-PF youth league event.
No casualties were reported, according to government spokesman Nick Mangwana.
“An Air Force of Zimbabwe helicopter experienced an aviation incident in Masvingo today,” he said.
“Thankfully, there were no casualties. The civil aviation authorities are currently investigating, and their findings will be shared with the public once available.”
Mnangagwa was in Masvingo to launch a housing scheme and celebrate his 82nd birthday. Sources revealed that the helicopter was headed to Bikita to pick up the President and return him to Harare when the incident occurred.
Despite clear skies, the helicopter experienced a catastrophic event during takeoff, according to an eyewitness. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by civil aviation authorities.
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono suggested that the helicopter crash aircraft may be a form of divine retribution for various issues plaguing Zimbabwe, including corruption and embezzlement of public funds.
“Some are saying that the ancestors rejected the desecration that occurred at Great Zimbabwe,” he posted on his X handle.
“Others believe this is the price you pay for stealing public funds and neglecting military hardware due to corruption.
“Either way, it was a tragedy, and thankfully, none of the helicopter crew was seriously injured!
“Stop pretending to be Munhumutapa and instead focus on providing children with medication in hospitals and clean drinking water in homes.
“Ensure employment for the youth, then you can celebrate when the work is done.
“Spirits and the almighty are different from Malaba whom you give instructions to lock up (Jameson) Timba, (Job) Sikhala and (Jacob) Ngarivhume.”
Former cabinet Minister Walter Mzembi echoed the same sentiments saying Great Zimbabwe was a sacred site.
“Zvine chirevo, muchikaranga tinoti mheni yakandira mazai… (This is a reminder the bird has laid eggs),” he said.
“Isu takakurira muMasvingo huye tichinzwisisa zvirevo zvenzvimbo …tirivebwo.
“Gore riya makamboitirwa Gala muGreat Zimbabwe kukakohwewa masaga nemasaga emaCondom nzara yakarova Masvingo mushure macho inotyisa .
“MuGreat Zimbabwe hamusi menhambetambe
“Munoera zvino pwere dzakasiya dzakabata musha dzoshura.”
