A 33-year-old Zimbabwean teacher, identified as Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge, has been arrested and arraigned before the court on charges of allegedly sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy in the Glen View suburb of Harare.
According to the State, Makedenge is the girlfriend of a tenant at the house where the complainant resides.
The complainant and the Makedenge were at home when she allegedly followed him into his room.
Makedenge is said to have forcibly engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse with the teenager without his consent.
The State further alleges that Makedenge instructed the boy not to reveal the incident to anyone, promising instead to take him to the United States, where she is formally employed.
The complainant later confided in his sister, who informed their mother. A police report was subsequently filed at Mbare Police Station, leading to Makedenge’s arrest
The matter is currently under investigation, and authorities have indicated that due legal processes will be followed to ensure justice is served.
Makedenge, represented by lawyer Lennon Itai Rwizi, is out on US$100 bail.
The accused is expected to reappear before the court as investigations continue.
This case has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many calling for increased protection of minors and thorough prosecution of all forms of abuse, regardless of the gender of the perpetrator.
