By Panashe Divine Karidzagundi
A civil court on Monday January 12, 2026 ordered a Beitbridge man to pay monthly child maintenance following a dispute over financial responsibility and custody of a seven-year-old child.
Senzeni Sibanda appeared before Magistrate Hazel Chitopo seeking maintenance from Thabani Muleya, requesting US$100 per month for the upkeep of their child, who is turning seven this year.
Sibanda broke down the costs, stating that the money would go towards food (US$60), school fees of R500 per term, a uniform costing R200, school shoes at R150, and a school bag valued at R100.
She told the court that she is a domestic worker and that Muleya had failed to consistently support their child.
Sibanda added that she covers other essential expenses such as stationery and lunch.
In his defence, Muleya told the court that he is a builder who survives on piece jobs and does not have a fixed income .
“Sometimes I earn about R2000 per project, which I split with my colleague,” said Muleya.
At times, he said, it takes him months before having any meaningful savings.
Muleya further pleaded with the court to grant him custody of the child, arguing that he had previously taken care of the child after their separation in 2023.
He also said he has three other children to support, one in Grade 6 and another in ECD.
Detailing his financial struggles, Muleya said his monthly expenses include R500 for groceries, R170 for maizemeal, R20 per day for relish, and R60 for transport when his bicycle breaks down.
He claimed he was not formally employed but expressed willingness to pay R100 if he was working consistently.
However, the magistrate pointed out that Muleya’s own breakdown of expenses showed he uses an average of R1000 per month, questioning his claim of being unable to contribute meaningfully to his child’s upkeep.
Muleya also told the court that he suffers from leg complications after being burnt as a child, which affects his ability to work.
When asked directly how much he could afford to pay, Muleya offered R200 per month.
Sibanda disputed his claims, accusing him of dishonesty and insisting that the proposed amount was inadequate.
She presented proof of school fees payments to support her case.
After hearing both sides, the court ruled that Muleya’s offer was irresponsible and insufficient to meet the needs of the child.
The magistrate ordered Muleya to deposit US$50 per month into Sibanda’s bank account as maintenance until the child reaches the age of majority.