By Panashe Karidzagundi
The Beitbridge Civil Court has ordered a local man to pay US$150 per month in maintenance for his two minor children following an application by their mother.
The matter was heard before Magistrate Mbonisi Kaweni on Monday this week, where Nomsa Mugarisi sought maintenance from Enos Peta for the upkeep of their two children.
In her application, Mugarisi told the court that she earns a living as a vendor and realises approximately US$100 per month.
She said that, she no longer lives with Peta and requested US$200 per month to assist with the children’s needs and wants.
Peta, who described himself as a cross-border transporter, informed the court that he could not afford the amount being sought.
He told the court that he also has a wife and two other minor children to support, but offered to pay US$150 per month, starting in the month of July 2026.
Mugarisi indicated that she had no objection to the proposed amount.
After hearing submissions from both parties, Kaweni ordered Peta to pay US$150 per month with effect from July 2026.
The maintenance order will remain in force until each child reaches the age of 18 or becomes self-supporting.