The trial of Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge’s starts today in the Harare Magistrates Court. Makedenge’s case was remanded to December 2 for the start of the trial, and reports indicate the trial has since begun. She was granted US$100 bail pending her trial. Makedenge, a 33-year-old US-based woman, is accused of having non-consensual s_exual intercourse with a 16-year-old boy in Glen View, Harare, on August 2, 2025.
The legal age of consent in Zimbabwe is 18 years. The state alleges she attempted to silence the complainant by promising to facilitate his travel to the United States. The incident was reported to the police after the boy confided in his sister, who then informed their mother.
