MARTIN MAWAYA
ZVISHAVANE-A six-year-old Zvishavane girl has died after allegedly enduring two days of brutal beatings at the hands of her uncle, who was teaching her how to write her name, police confirmed on Thursday.
Praise Tsomeka, succumbed to injuries on January 21 at Zvishavane District Hospital, following what authorities described as sustained physical abuse carried out in the name of discipline.
Her uncle and guardian, Takudzwa Wellington Chimuka (28) has since been arrested in connection with Praise’s death.
According to the Midlands provincial police, the abuse occurred on January 18 and 19 in Kosvoro village under Chief Masunda, Zvishavane district.
Investigators say Chimuka used mopane tree switches to beat the child each time she failed to correctly write her name.
When the switches broke the following day, he allegedly resorted to using a rubber sjambok, a heavy whip commonly associated with corporal punishment.
On January 21, Chimuka and his wife reportedly transported the child to a local prophet, hoping prayer would alleviate her symptoms.
When her condition worsened, they sought medical attention but, Praise died shortly after her admission at Zvishavane District Hospital.
“Initial investigations suggest that the suspect became increasingly aggressive during the writing lessons, inflicting severe beatings over minor mistakes,” said Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko.
“The victim began exhibiting signs of extreme pain and fatigue two days later and was eventually taken for spiritual healing before being brought to hospital.”
The incident has sparked outrage among child welfare advocates and community leaders who are calling for increased awareness around non-violent parenting.
Authorities have also reiterated the importance of humane treatment of children, particularly in educational and disciplinary settings.
“We take this opportunity to strongly urge all parents and guardians to reflect on their methods of discipline,” police said in a statement. “There is no justification for cruelty in the name of correction. Children must be nurtured, not brutalized.”
Chimuka remains in police custody and is expected to appear in court.
