Roseline Mutare
Kudzai Chikwaya (2) drowned in an incomplete toilet pit at his family’s homestead in Ngundu, Chivi, on February 12.
According to police reports, the toddler’s mother, Beauty Moyo, had left for Bulawayo to sell watermelons on 9 February leaving her two children, Kudzai and his four-year-old brother, in the care of their 17-year-old housemaid.
At around 12 noon, on February 12 the maid left the children unattended in the house while she went to fetch firewood from a nearby bush. The children managed to open the unlocked door and began playing outside.
Tragedy struck when Kudzai fell into the incomplete toilet pit, which is approximately 4m deep. His brother ran to call the maid, who rushed back to find Kudzai submerged in the pit. The maid and others managed to retrieve the toddler’s body from the pit.
The police were notified, and the body was taken to Chivi District Hospital. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Masvingo Province police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident, urging parents and caregivers to exercise vigilance in ensuring the safety of children, particularly around water and other hazardous areas.
