Online Reporter
Dalyn Chigwizura Court Reporter
A 20-year-old man from Pumula South suburb in Bulawayo has been sentenced to perform community service by Magistrate Mr Archie Wochiwunga for dating and impregnating a minor.
Brian Mukunda was sentenced to perform 208 hours of community service at ZRP Pumula South, which he is expected to complete within 8 weeks, starting on July 7, 2025.
The 15-year-old minor, who was in form three, has dropped out of school due to her pregnancy.
During the trial at the West Commonage court, the mother of the minor pleaded with the magistrate that the accused person should not be sent to prison, so that he could find work and take full responsibility for his actions.
The mother explained that she is unable to manage all the needs of her daughter, including preparing for the birth. She stressed that the accused person needs to take care of the girl and the child after birth.
“He needs to provide milk for the baby because, after the mother has given birth, she needs to return to school since she’s still a minor,” said the mother.
Prosecuting the matter, Ms Audrey Kufandikanwe told the court that the accused person and the 15-year-old girl were in a relationship.
In January, the accused person and the minor had consensual intercourse at his place of residence.
The matter came to light after the mother noticed changes in the girl’s body and behaviour. When questioned, the minor narrated what had happened, revealing that she was pregnant. She was then referred to Mpilo Hospital for a medical examination, which confirmed her pregnancy.
The medical report was produced in court as evidence. Mukunda pleaded guilty to the charges, admitting that he was aware of the girl’s age.
The magistrate’s sentence requires Mukunda to perform community service, taking into account the mother’s plea and the accused person’s admission of guilt.
