By Evans Zhou
A Chiredzi magistrate on Thursday remanded housekeeper Qiniso Mthunzana, 33, in custody until October 1 on allegations she facilitated a 13-year-old girl to engage in sex at her employer’s home.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe said police arrested Mthunzana following investigations into alleged abuse that occurred between June 1 and August 30 at the residence where she worked.
Authorities did not release details that could identify the child.
“Children must be shielded from environments that expose them to sexual harm. Adults who enable or ignore such exploitation will face serious legal consequences,” the NPAZ said in a statement.
Prosecutors did not disclose whether Mthunzana entered a plea.
Child protection advocates say enabling or facilitating sexual activity involving a minor is a serious offence under Zimbabwean law.
Section 81 of the Constitution guarantees every child the right to be protected from sexual exploitation and abuse, and the Constitutional Court’s 2016 Mudzuru ruling affirmed that practices undermining children’s safety and dignity—such as child marriage—are unconstitutional.
Prosecutors routinely pursue accomplices and intermediaries in cases where adults create or permit conditions for abuse.
Police often channel such cases through the Victim Friendly Unit, which coordinates with social workers and health professionals to support survivors and gather evidence suitable for court.
Authorities urge families and community members to report suspected abuse immediately and to preserve potential evidence by seeking prompt medical care and avoiding actions that could compromise investigations.
