Father offers US$10 a month for child

Faith Mandizha

IN a shocking display of irresponsibility, a Harare man has offered only US$10 in maintenance for his 12-year-old child.

Trymore Nyakuba made the offer at the Harare Civil Court yesterday after being dragged there by his former wife, Elizabeth Nyakuba, who was claiming US$60.

“I’m not formally employed, Your Worship,” Trymore said.

“I’m a vendor and I take wares from Dairibord for resale.

“I only make US$30 per month and, unfortunately, she doesn’t update me on the things needed at school.

“She must just give me my child since she remarried.”

Elizabeth said their child was in Grade 7 and needed a lot more than what Trymore was offering.

“US$10 is nothing compared to what the child actually needs.

“It’s winter and the child needs warm uniforms, food and fees,” she said.

Magistrate Sharon Mashavira ordered Trymore to pay US$20 per month and fees directly to the school.

“Her being married doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay maintenance.

“Do you want her husband to take care of your child?” magistrate Mashavira asked.