Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti
Herald Reporter
A HARARE woman, Sangeliswe Matisanwa, has been granted US$100 monthly maintenance for her two minor children after she approached the Harare Civil Court seeking US$200 in monthly maintenance from her former partner, Elias Antonio.
The children are aged eight and 10.
Antonio opposed the claim, offering to pay US$80 per month.
He told the court that he already pays full school fees for the children and meets his own living expenses, including US$80 in monthly rentals.
“I pay their school fees alone and I also have to pay rent,” he said
Matisanwa rejected the offer, arguing that the amount was inadequate to meet the children’s needs.
She testified that the children were slow learners and required extra lessons, which she pays for.
She added that her income from selling perfumes was inconsistent and insufficient, adding that she also pays rent and struggles to adequately provide for the children.
“I buy food, pay rent, pay for extra lessons and what do I do? l only sell perfumes,” she said.
After hearing submissions from both parties, presiding magistrate Ms Hannah Fazilahmed ordered Antonio to pay US$100 monthly.
The magistrate also ordered Antonio to continue paying full school fees directly into the school’s bank account. The maintenance order takes effect from February 28.
