By Tendai Makaripe
A 26-year-old driver has been sentenced to two years in prison and banned from driving for two years after a crash in Harare that killed a child pedestrian.
In a statement dated February 4 2026, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said the Mbare Magistrates’ Court convicted Hatumwi Tinashe of culpable homicide following a crash that “resulted in the death of a minor.”
The National Prosecuting Authority said the crash occurred on November 21, 2025, at about 11:30 a.m., when Tinashe was driving a Toyota Hiace on an unnamed road in Crowborough Phase 3.
The vehicle hit a child who was crossing the road.
“The victim sustained severe head injuries and was pronounced dead upon arrival at Sally Mugabe Hospital,” read the statement in part.
The court found the driver negligent for failing to keep a proper lookout and failing to take reasonable action when a collision became imminent.
Tinashe pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years in prison.
The magistrates’ court also prohibited him from driving for two years and ordered the cancellation of his driver’s licence.
For children, road crashes can be especially devastating because they are more likely to walk to school, play near roads and misjudge vehicle speed and stopping distances.
Safety advocates often urge drivers to slow down in residential areas, stay alert for pedestrians, especially children, and treat crossing points and roadside foot traffic as high-risk zones.
Children’s Voices continues to follow child safety issues in communities across Zimbabwe. If you have information about dangerous road spots near schools, marketplaces or residential areas, or what your community is doing to protect children, share your story tip with us.
