Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti
Herald Reporter
A HARARE woman, who was demanding US$300 monthly maintenance from her former partner for the upkeep of their two minor children, has been granted a revised amount of US$90 by the Harare Civil Court.
Sarah Chikwanya had told the Harare Civil Court that the US$300 she was requesting from Knowledge Msindo was for the children’s needs such as food, clothes and medication.
She added that the eldest child was going to school and needed fees.
“I need help, I need this amount for proper upkeep of my children,” Chikwanya said
Musindo told the court that he could not afford the amount being claimed, saying he was a driver who did not earn much.
He offered to pay US$70 per month in maintenance and to cover full school fees for the eldest child.
In response, Chikwanya said the offer was inadequate, explaining that their youngest child suffers from breathing problems and requires regular medication.
She told the court that she buys nasal medication, which costs US$15 and US$27, bringing the total monthly cost of the child’s medication to US$168.
Musindo then offered to contribute US$20 towards the child’s medication.
After hearing submissions from both parties, presiding magistrate Ms Hannah Fazilahmed granted maintenance of US$90 per month for the two children, effective January 31.
The magistrate further ordered Musindo to pay full school fees directly into the school’s account.
