The funeral of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo featured an emotional moment when a heartfelt message from his former wife, Sonja, was delivered to mourners.
Sonja, who is the mother of Chivayo’s children, did not personally take to the podium. Instead, a close friend read the message on her behalf during the funeral service. The speech, delivered in Shona, focused on forgiveness, motherhood, family and the importance of healing after a painful loss.
Her words reportedly left many mourners deeply emotional, with particular attention drawn to the way she spoke about the children she shared with the late businessman.
Throughout the message, Sonja referred to the children as “vana vedu”, meaning “our children”. The phrase captured the attention of those attending the funeral and highlighted her focus on putting the children and their future at the centre of the family’s healing process.
Rather than dwelling on the difficulties that may have existed during their relationship, Sonja’s message centred on forgiveness and moving forward. She appeared to acknowledge the pain surrounding Chivayo’s death while encouraging those left behind to choose love and unity.
The speech quickly gained attention beyond the funeral venue after footage of the emotional moment circulated online. Many Zimbabweans praised Sonja for the dignity and composure she displayed during what was an extremely difficult period for her and her family.
Several people who reacted to the speech described her words as those of a mother who was putting her children first despite her own grief.
Others commended her for choosing forgiveness and highlighting the importance of family at such a painful time. Some said her message demonstrated maturity and emotional strength, particularly because funerals can bring unresolved family issues to the surface.
One commenter expressed sympathy for Sonja and said that disagreements between people should be put aside during moments of loss, while another praised her for continuing to show love through the children she shared with Chivayo.
Another social media user prayed for Sonja to receive strength as she raises the children and deals with the loss. Others offered prayers for the entire family, asking for comfort and healing during the difficult days ahead.
The emotional response to Sonja’s speech added another significant moment to Chivayo’s funeral, which attracted considerable public attention following his death.
Members of Chivayo’s family had previously indicated that preparations for his burial were underway. His uncle also spoke publicly about the arrangements and said a burial site had been identified at Glenforest Cemetery.
The family reportedly expected the funeral to attract prominent guests, including African leaders and other notable figures.
Amid the attention surrounding the high-profile farewell, Sonja’s message stood out for its focus on forgiveness, family and the children left behind.
Her decision to emphasise healing rather than past differences resonated with many mourners and members of the public, who viewed the speech as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion during times of grief.
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