Women Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa has issued a searing condemnation following the rape of a 13-year-old Grade 7 pupil by a tout at Harare’s Rezende Parkade, describing the act as “despicable and repulsive” and vowing swift justice.
In a statement, Mutsvangwa said the government would leave “no stone unturned” in ensuring the perpetrator is brought to book and that the survivor receives full psychosocial support.
“The trauma inflicted on this child is unforgivable. Such brazen violence against women and girls must be met with the full force of the law,” she said, warning that the case was a stark reminder of the dangers girls face in public spaces.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who remains at large. Authorities say the girl initially stayed silent about the assault until her school intervened, prompting a medical examination and the opening of a criminal case.
Mutsvangwa urged citizens to reject bystander apathy“Protecting our girls is a collective duty.”
Her ministry is coordinating with law enforcement to secure justice and provide long-term care for the victim.
The RhonaFlo Foundation, a maternal health organisation supporting vulnerable teen mothers, also expressed outrage. Program Advisor Memory Kadau described the crime as “heartbreaking” and “a wake-up call for urgent action.”
“If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention. The rape of this 13-year-old is sad, despicable, outrageous, and heartbreaking,” Kadau said, calling for the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, civil society, and the public to unite in making streets safe for women and girls.
She warned that the incident was part of a wider pattern, pointing to a spike in gender-based violence cases this year.
“There is a problem that needs to be addressed now,” she stressed.
