Online Reporter
Fidelis Chavarike
Weekender Reporter
A HEATED dispute between an erstwhile couple unfolded at the Mutare Civil Court, where Kenneth Kagadzikwa, sought a peace order against Eugenia Umbowa, accusing her of insults and threats of violence against his new family.
The conflict, which began in July, allegedly stemmed from Umbowa’s return from South Africa, where she had been working.
Kagadzikwa claimed Umbowa demanded to reclaim her position in the household, leading to a series of disturbing incidents.
“In October 2023, she left for South Africa, and I only found out six months later.
I called her, trying to convince her to return, but she told me to move on. When she came back in July, she began pushing and throwing property around the house, demanding access to the bedroom.
I am requesting a peace order while we wait for the courts to assist us in sharing the property, as she has threatened to become violent,” said Kagadzikwa.
However, Umbowa vehemently disputed Kagadzikwa’s claims, alleging that he had betrayed her trust.
She explained that they had agreed to work in South Africa together to raise funds for their child’s education.
“I left in 2023 so we that could raise school fees for our child, who was supposed to start Form One the following year. We agreed on this plan, and he said he would join me later.
“He later told me that he would not come because he had married another woman. In March 2024, he chased away two of our children, including the one who was still in school,” said Umbowa, further arguing that Kagadzikwa’s decision to bring his new wife into their matrimonial home was unacceptable.
Umbowa’s frustration intensified as she recounted the latest developments.
“He should have found alternative accommodation for her, instead of letting her take over everything that is rightfully mine — the bedroom, household utensils, and now the spare bedroom.
“Last Saturday, I was shocked to find my bag and bed thrown outside, and his new wife occupying the spare room. I have already obtained a protection order against her due to her violent behaviour.
“Now, I want her out of the house, so I can finally return to my home and start rebuilding my life,” she said.
Kagadzikwa rebutted Umbowa’s allegations, arguing that he had already paid their Grade Seven child’s exam and school fees before she left.
He also claimed that Umbowa had accumulated debts with several people in the area, which might have prompted her departure.
“She owed many people money, which may be a reason why she left. I had already paid the exam and school fees.
“The child she claims I chased away is now in Form Two. She never contributed to her education. The child was taken in by her older sister, who cared for her since it was just the two of us at home,” said Kagadzikwa.
He explained that he had allowed Umbowa to use some rooms at the house while awaiting a formal division of property.
“I gave her rooms to use while we wait for the property to be shared. But since she has become increasingly violent, I decided to seek a peace order. She decided to leave. We have three children from our marriage and two are already married. We could have managed to pay school fees for the youngest child,” hesaid.
Umbowa also accused Kagadzikwa of being a habitual drunkard who mismanages money. She claimed to have sent him money while she was away.
“He is a drunkard who prioritises alcohol. I sent him money to help secure a Form One place for our child. After I sent the money, he started complaining about transport and food costs.
“Our second-born daughter was staying with them at the time due to marital problems, and he chased both of them away,” said Umbowa.
Mutare magistrate, Mr Xavier Chipato granted the peace order in favour of Kagadzikwa.
“I hereby grant a peace order in favour of Kagadzikwa, and direct both parties to maintain peace and refrain from any acts of violence, intimidation or harassment.
“This order shall remain in effect while the parties await the final determination of property sharing. It is valid for a period of five years,” he said.
