Memes show motorbike convoys speeding towards the border, with random clowns walking on foot carrying enormous sufurias to provide catering.
Following the tragic news of a helicopter crash in Zimbabwe on the evening of September 30 that claimed the lives of businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, Kenyans on social media have turned their full attention to Harare.
Authorities have confirmed that there were no survivors from the accident.
The flamboyant Zimbabwean tycoon was known for his extraordinary displays of wealth and, more surprisingly to Kenyans, his unfettered access to some of Africa’s most powerful politicians. He was frequently seen with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and also hung out with regional leaders, including Kenya’s President William Ruto.
Chivayo had shared images and videos of his interactions with the Kenyan president, including footage from Ruto’s ranch in Kilgoris. He was also seen with Ruto during the koito ceremony involving the president’s daughter, Charlene Ruto and Tanzanian entrepreneur Isaya Yunge.
When news of his death broke, Kenyans on X, popularly known as KOX, did what they do best. Within hours, social media was awash with jokes about Kenyans “rushing to Zimbabwe on short notice.” Memes show motorbike convoys speeding towards the border, with random clowns walking on foot carrying enormous sufurias to provide catering.
Another viral video showed a boda boda rider carrying a coffin speeding and swerving dangerously down a highway, apparently determined to cross the border before dusk.
The memes and comments have produced a weird online camaraderie between Kenyans and Zimbabweans, with users from both countries reacting to the bizarre enthusiasm coming from Kenya. Some Zimbabweans are amused by the sudden Kenyan interest in their country.
Chivayo had attracted fascination from his highly publicised relationships with presidents and other powerful figures across Africa. Ruto has since publicly mourned Chivayo, describing him as a friend.
Zimbabwe authorities continue processing the tragedy as condolence messages stream in from across the continent to his family and nation.
