By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Mazowe, Zimbabwe — A 33-year-old woman from Mazowe was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Friday after being convicted of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl under the guise of performing a “virginity test.” The case shocked both the courtroom and the community, highlighting serious concerns about child abuse and gender-based violence.
The incident occurred on April 26, 2025, and was brought to light after the girl’s mother unexpectedly caught the woman in the act.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the woman, who was known to the victim’s family and claimed to have been sent by the child’s mother, lured the girl into a private space with false pretenses.
In a statement issued on June 13, 2025, the NPAZ explained that the woman falsely claimed she had been sent by the victim’s mother to conduct a virginity test, then proceeded to insert her fingers into her own private parts and into the child’s, in what was described as a sexual assault.
The attack was interrupted when the girl’s mother walked in unexpectedly, catching the woman in the act. The mother immediately reported the incident to police, leading to the woman’s arrest.
The court heard that the accused was a close friend of the girl’s mother and often visited their home, making the betrayal even more distressing for the family and community.
This case has raised awareness across Zimbabwe about female-on-female sexual assault, a form of abuse that is often overlooked.
The NPAZ highlighted the importance of recognizing that such violations can be as damaging as assaults by male perpetrators, emphasizing the need for vigilance and protection of children.
The woman was convicted of aggravated indecent assault and sentenced to 15 years in prison. The lengthy sentence aims to underscore the seriousness of such crimes and send a clear message that predatory behavior will not be tolerated.
The young girl is currently receiving counselling, and support services have been mobilized to help her cope with the trauma. Social workers note that healing will take time.
The NPAZ concluded by stating, “Justice has been served, but we must remain vigilant and protect our children from all forms of abuse.”