Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Check Point
POLICE in Matabeleland South have launched a manhunt for an unidentified suspect who impregnated a 13-year-old girl, who later gave birth mid-air while being airlifted from Maphisa Hospital to the United Bulawayo Hospitals due to birth complications.
The dramatic incident occurred earlier this month after the minor was airlifted by the Helidrive National Air Rescue Service. The emergency flight was prompted by complications during labour.
Matabeleland South police provincial spokesperson Inspector Chiratidzo Dube, said police had intensified investigations and were determined to bring the perpetrator to justice.
“As Matabeleland South police, we are thoroughly investigating the matter. This includes identifying and interviewing witnesses to gather evidence,” said Insp Dube.
“It also involves apprehending the suspect while ensuring the victim receives the necessary support and the justice she deserves.”
Dr Marshall Kahari, who attended to the minor during the flight, described the delicate but precise mid-air delivery. He said the emergency procedure began just seven minutes after the helicopter had taken off en route to Bulawayo.
He reported that the patient, whose identity is being withheld for legal and ethical reasons, suddenly began experiencing intense and increasingly frequent labour pains prompting the emergency delivery.
The case comes at a time when Matabeleland South Province has intensified efforts to combat teenage pregnancies and child marriages under the campaign “Not in My Village”, led by traditional leaders.
The campaign adopts a community-based approach, empowering chiefs to lead initiatives that mobilise collective efforts to tackle adolescent pregnancies. The programme also focuses on educating communities about HIV, teenage pregnancy, and early marriage.
It aims to transform attitudes and behaviours among community gatekeepers and the general public, promoting the rights and well-being of girls and young women.
Concerns over teenage pregnancies and child marriages are growing, particularly as Matabeleland South has one of the highest provincial HIV prevalence rates at around 17,3 percent — significantly higher than the national average of 10,49 percent.
More than 100 000 people out of the province’s estimated population of 750 000 are reported to be living with HIV. All districts in the province exceed the national average, with Bulilima registering the highest prevalence at approximately 22,5 percent, followed by Mangwe District at 21,6 percent.
Last week, the National AIDS Council (NAC) revealed that a staggering 21 000 teenagers in Matabeleland North Province had fallen pregnant in just over two years.
According to the 2023–24 Zimbabwe Health Survey, the national teenage pregnancy rate has risen to 23 percent, up from 21,06 percent in 2015. Teen pregnancy refers to pregnancy in girls under the legal adult age of 18.
Research indicates that child marriages and teenage pregnancies are driven by a complex mix of factors, including poverty, entrenched gender norms, cultural and religious beliefs, and limited access to essential services and information.
