Boy burnt to death by Zesa cables buried

Primary School in Harare.
His aunt, Ms Eresia Govha, yesterday said Zesa provided the family with a coffin, transport and US$300 to cover other funeral expenses.

She said the assistance came after a “long argument”.
Ms Govha said Zesa officials had indicated that the family could fund the funeral on its own.
“They said they would refund us upon producing receipts that showed our expenses,” she said.

Ms Govha said the family has since approached a lawyer for advice on the power utility could be made to compensate for Takudzwa’s death.
“The money they gave us was too little and could not cover the funeral expenses,” she said.
Zesa spokesperson Mr Fullard Gwasira could not be reached for comment yesterday.

There are a number of areas — including places frequented by children — that have exposed electricity cables.
One such place is Nettleton Primary School in Braeside, Harare, where cables have been in the open for a long time.
Experts say although the cables are insulated, they still posed danger to children as they are supposed to be underground.

Some Harare residents yesterday said Zesa should compensate Takudzwa’s family.
“Of course, negligence has no defence because even if Zesa compensates the family, it will not bring back the lost life,” said Mrs Mary Marume.
“The person who left the cables naked should be charged. Zesa should put warning signs on dangerous sites,” said Tatenda Mudonhorere.