Online Reporter
Moreblessing Ncube
A 45-YEAR-OLD Inyathi man appeared in court after allegedly sexually abusing his 12-year-old stepdaughter in a series of incidents that the mother of the child allegedly tried to hide, to protect her husband.
The man who cannot be named to protect the identity of the minor, appeared before Bulawayo Magistrate Taurai Manwere and was remanded in custody until 20 November for sentencing.
According to Prosecutor Nomthandazo Mafu, the abuse began in January 2024 around midday. The then Grade 4 girl had been left in the care of the accused while her mother went to work. He sent her to the bedroom to fetch mealie meal, followed her inside, closed the door and grabbed her. He removed her clothing and allegedly had unprotected sexual intercourse with her before threatening her into silence.
In January 2025, while the mother was away again, the accused allegedly repeated the assault after calling the child to his bedroom. He undressed her, abused her and ordered her to keep quiet.
A third incident happened in May 2025 when the child was feeling unwell and was left with the accused. He allegedly sent her to his bedroom and assaulted her again.
On 6 June, 2025 the accused allegedly dragged the girl into a bush while they were travelling to Inyathi and assaulted her once more.
The child finally disclosed the truth 8 on June 2025 during a Social Welfare interview. The social worker immediately took action and reported the matter to police, leading to the man’s arrest. She was referred to Inyathi District Hospital for medical examination.
In court, the complainant’s mother said the child had been complaining of severe abdominal pains. A neighbour questioned the child’s condition and they took her to hospital. When asked why she delayed reporting to police, the mother said she experienced pain in her leg and ended up returning home.
Prosecutor Mafu challenged her, suggesting that fear, confusion or loyalty to her husband might have influenced her behaviour. The court heard that during a previous hearing she had even attempted to intimidate the complainant until the magistrate instructed her to stop. Social Welfare has since separated the child from her for safety reasons.
Mafu said between the time the mother was left behind and the complainant was taken to the police station, the accused allegedly raped the child again. She said the child’s abdominal pains were consistent with repeated assault and argued that the mother’s testimony appeared biased and unhelpful.
Child protection officials emphasised that this case is a reminder that children rely on adults to act immediately when something feels wrong. Silence, fear and divided loyalty give abusers space to continue harming victims. Families, neighbours and caregivers must speak out early, believe children and prioritise their safety.
Communities are urged to report abuse promptly, support survivors and work with Social Welfare and the police to protect vulnerable children.
