By Panashe Divine Karidzagundi
A Beitbridge woman has secured a maintenance order against her former partner following a court ruling aimed at supporting their school-going child.
Beauty Chakawa approached the Beitbridge Civil Court for assistance getting financial support for their 4-year-old child.
Chakawa, a vendor, also pursuing her studies, told the court her monthly income ranges between $100 and $150.
That amount, she said, was no longer sufficient for the child’s growing needs, especially with school expenses now in play.
She demanded for $100 for maintenance.
The respondent, Beloved Mahahlani, opposed the amount being claimed, arguing that he could afford to pay $40 per month only.
Mahahlani told the court that he earns approximately $200 monthly from cross-border hustling.
He said he has additional responsibilities, including two other children going to school and a pregnant partner in a new relationship.
“I can only manage $40,” Mahahlani said.
However, Chakawa maintained that the amount was inadequate saying the child’s educational needs required more support.
Presiding magistrate Mbonisi Kaweni ruled in favour of a moderate increase, ordering Mahahlani to pay $60 per month in maintenance.
The payments to take effect from March 2026 and will continue until the child turns 18 or becomes self-supporting.