HARARE, Zimbabwe — A 33-year-old teacher has appeared in court on charges of aggravated indecent assault after allegedly sexually abusing a 16-year-old male student in a case that has reignited national debates over child protection and legal definitions of sexual offenses. The teacher, Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge, is accused of assaulting the boy at a residence in the Glen View suburb of Harare .
According to the State, Makedenge who is the girlfriend of a tenant at the house where the complainant resides forcibly engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse with the student on August 2, 2025 . The prosecution alleges that Makedenge tied the boy’s hands with an electric cable and overpowered him before the assault. She reportedly warned him not to disclose the matter and promised to take him to the United States, where she is employed . Watch the VIDEO
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The complainant later confided in his sister, who informed their mother. A police report was filed at Mbare Police Station, leading to Makedenge’s arrest. The boy underwent a medical examination, and a medical affidavit will be submitted as evidence in court .
Makedenge, represented by lawyer Lennon Itai Rwizi, has pleaded not guilty and is currently out on US$100 bail . Her defense submitted a different account of events: that the complainant approached her complaining of flu, and she prepared him a ginger drink and offered to find medication. The defense claims the student allegedly made sexual advances, which Makedenge says she rejected, and that she is being framed by her boyfriend’s family who never accepted her .
The case has become a flashpoint for public debate, not only due to the age of the victim but also due to a critical gap in Zimbabwean law. Legal commentators have pointed out that while society instinctively recognizes the conduct described as rape, the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act defines rape as a crime that can only be committed by a male against a female . Consequently, the State has charged Makedenge under section 66, which covers aggravated indecent assault an offense for non-consensual penetration carried out with indecent intention .
In 2024, Zimbabwe raised the age of consent to 18 years under the Criminal Laws (Protection of Children and Young Persons) Regulations, eliminating any defense of consent for sexual acts with minors . Despite this legal milestone, the current case has highlighted ongoing challenges in protecting children from abuse and ensuring that the law fully addresses all forms of sexual violence against minors.
