Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge, a 33-year-old woman living in the United States, has shocked the Harare community after being accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy.
The alleged incident reportedly took place in Glen View on 2 August 2025.
According to prosecutors, Makedenge forced herself on the boy without his consent. After the alleged act, she is said to have tried to silence him by promising to take him to the United States if he kept quiet.
The boy eventually told his sister, and their mother reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, leading to Makedenge’s arrest.
Under Zimbabwean law, the age of sexual consent is 18. Any sexual activity with a minor is considered a criminal offense, making this a serious case under statutory rape and sexual assault laws.
Makedenge appeared in Harare Magistrates Court in late November 2025, where she was granted bail of US $100. Her trial officially began on 2 December 2025, and the case is currently before the court. No final judgment or conviction has been reported yet.
This case has drawn widespread attention not only because it involves a minor but also because the accused is a diaspora national. Many Zimbabweans have expressed outrage on social media, highlighting concerns about protecting minors and holding adults accountable for sexual crimes.
The court will continue to examine evidence from both the prosecution and the defense. If convicted, Makedenge could face serious penalties under Zimbabwe’s sexual offense laws, making this case a potential precedent for future incidents involving adults living abroad.
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