By Panashe Karidzagundi
A maintenance dispute between Sthulisiwe Ncube and Stanford Simbi has resulted in a court-ordered increase in monthly child support, following concerns over rising school fees and the welfare of three children.
Ncube appeared before provincial magistrate Mbonisi Kaweni for an upward variation of maintenance from US$125 to US$185 per month, citing significant increases in school fees and additional child care expenses.
Ncube told the court that one child attending Vhembe High School had fees adjusted from US$120 to US$125, another at St Mary’s saw fees rise from US$100 to US$165, while the youngest in primary school now requires US$80, up from US$60.
Ncube said Simbi does not contribute towards clothing for the children, adding to her financial burden.
In response, Simbi acknowledged the financial strain but maintained that he is already struggling to meet the current maintenance obligation.
Simbi told the court that he often pays after the due date due to financial difficulties, indicating his limited capacity to absorb further increases.
During proceedings, Kaweni sought clarity on whether the existing maintenance amount was sufficient, Simbi conceded that the amount was inadequate, despite his challenges in meeting it.
After considering submissions from both parties, the court ruled in favour of a partial increase, ordering an upward variation of child maintenance maintenance from US$125 to US$150 per month.
The new payment structure will take effect from May 2026.