Two suspected robbers who allegedly robbed Wicknell Chivayo’s in-laws of US$74,000 at their Marondera farm appeared in court on Tuesday, March 25.
Peter Maramba Vhiya (43) and Takudzwa Maisvoreva (24), both from Chitungwiza, faced two counts of robbery before Regional Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa. They were informed that only the High Court could grant bail.
They were remanded to April 10 to allow for the case of a third suspect to be joined with their case.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Lancelot Mutsokoti told the court that on March 18, at around 1 AM, the pair, along with accomplices still at large, raided Alfa and Omega Farm in Marondera while armed with three rifles, two pistols, bolt cutters, machetes, and iron bars.
Mutsokoti further alleged that upon arrival, the suspects ambushed Petros Mabunhu, a security guard employed by DM Security, assaulting him with iron bars and kicking him repeatedly. They tied his hands and legs with cable ties before forcing him into the farmyard.
There, they encountered another guard, Zex Mutasa Rusike, disarming him of a shotgun without ammunition.
Rusike was similarly bound and marched to the front guardroom, where a third guard, Medic Zhakata, was also attacked and restrained.
The security guards were left under the watch of two armed accomplices while the rest of the gang broke into the main house.
Using bolt cutters, they forced entry through the burglar screen and kitchen door, eventually confronting Gerald Muteke in his bedroom.
Fearing for his life, Muteke surrendered US$18,000 in cash, a loaded Sarsilmaz pistol, and two Samsung smartphones (an S23 and an S24).
The gang then moved to Vimbai Muteke’s bedroom, where they demanded cash and the safe keys.
She handed over US$1,100, the safe key, and a Samsung Galaxy A35. Inside the main bedroom safe, the robbers took an additional US$55,000.
As the robbers continued their raid, Elphas Maruta, armed with a Lee-Enfield .303 rifle loaded with four rounds, advanced toward the house after being alerted of the robbery.
A shootout ensued, with Maruta firing two shots and the suspects firing back three shots.
The gang ultimately fled the scene with a total of US$74,600 in cash and valuables. The police later recovered stolen property worth US$3,800.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/2-suspected-chivayo-lobola-robbers-appear-in-court/">The Herald</a>

Pindula News

Two men are in trouble for stealing money from someone's family. They attacked the guards at a farm with guns and tied them up. They broke into the house and stole lots of money and phones. The robbers also had a shootout with a man who tried to stop them. The police managed to recover some of the stolen items. The two men are in court and will be back in April. They can't get bail until the High Court decides. They were caught with guns and other weapons.

Two Suspected Chivayo Lobola Money Robbers Appear In Court

Three people, including a police officer, have been arrested in connection with an armed robbery at a Marondera farm owned by the in-laws of businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
According to ZimLive, police sources revealed that the three suspects, all from Hopley in Harare, were arrested on Thursday by detectives from the CID Stores and Business division.
A constable, identified as Mukuva from the Kopje Police Station, is reportedly on the run after being linked to the crime.
The robbery occurred in the early hours of March 18, during which an estimated US$74,100 — part of the lobola (bride price) payment made by Chivayo for his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke — was allegedly stolen.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Saturday.
Police believe as many as 20 people, some armed with firearms and machetes, were involved in the daring heist.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/3-arrested-over-75k-armed-robbery-at-home-of-wicknell-chivayos-inlaws/">ZimLive</a>

Three people, including a police officer, were arrested for robbing a farm owned by Wicknell Chivayo's in-laws in Marondera. The suspects took US$74,000 that was part of a bride price payment. One suspect, a constable, is still on the run. The robbery happened on March 18, and the suspects will appear in court on Saturday. Police think about 20 people with weapons were involved in the robbery. Source: ZimLive.

Three Suspects Arrested For Allegedly Robbing Wicknell Chivayo's In-Laws' Of US$74,000

Wicknell Chivayo has offered a reward of US$100,000 for anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of 20 suspected robbers who raided a farm in Marondera owned by his in-laws.
The robbery occurred on Tuesday morning, March 18, when the gang attacked Alpha and Omega Farm around 1 AM. The robbers seized US$74,100 in cash, a pistol, three cellphones, and other valuables.
During the raid, the gang assaulted security guards and some family members, who, realising they were cornered, surrendered the cash.
It is suspected that part of the stolen money was lobola (bride price) paid by Chivayo recently. This ceremony had been widely publicised on social media, which may have attracted the attention of the robbers.
On Tuesday, Chivayo posted on his social media accounts, offering a US$100,000 reward for credible information that leads to the robbers’ capture. He said:
<blockquote>
It is with UTMOST REGRET that I share a very UNFORTUNATE incident that occurred at my in-laws’ residence in Marondera during the early hours of this morning, 18th March 2025. 
According to information confirmed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police, a case of armed robbery is under investigation involving 20 suspects who UNLAWFULLY gained access to my in-law’s residence at Alpha and Omega Farm and stole a significant sum of MONEY and various valuable items. 
I STRONGLY CONDEMN such cowardly criminal conduct and kindly request the public to cooperate with the police by providing any information that could lead to the identification and arrest of these offenders.
To support this PUBLIC effort, I am offering a reward of USD 100,000 in hard CASH to anyone who will provide CREDIBLE information leading to the positive IDENTIFICATION of ANY or ALL of these SHAMELESS robbers , their residential locations or other significant particulars and ultimately their ARREST. 
This reward is offered on a NO QUESTIONS ASKED basis , provided any of the culprits are identified and apprehended.
</blockquote>
Chivayo has provided several contacts for those with information that could help in the investigation. Individuals can reach out to the following:
<ul data-end="591" data-start="148">
<li data-end="189" data-start="148">CID Homicide, Harare: +263 24 2758031</li>
<li data-end="243" data-start="190">Detective Chief Inspector Jachi: +263 77 275 3003</li>
<li data-end="293" data-start="244">Detective Inspector Mkandla: +263 77 262 9755</li>
<li data-end="365" data-start="294">CID Marondera, Detective Chief Inspector Chikomwe: +263 77 222 1143</li>
<li data-end="468" data-start="366">CID Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer, Detective Inspector Muteweri: +263 77 303 5028</li>
<li data-end="556" data-start="469">Police General Headquarters Press and Public Relations (WhatsApp): +263 71 280 0197</li>
<li data-end="591" data-start="557">Or any nearest police station</li>
</ul>

Wicknell Chivayo is offering $100,000 for information on 20 robbers who stole money and valuables from his in-laws' farm in Marondera. The robbery happened on March 18, and the gang hurt some people. Chivayo thinks the robbers may have been attracted by his recent wedding posts on social media. He is asking for help from the public to catch the robbers. If you know anything, you can contact the police or Chivayo's team. Chivayo is very upset about what happened and wants the robbers to be caught.

Chivayo Offers US$100,000 Reward For Information On Suspects Who Robbed His In-laws

A 47-year-old Mwenezi man has been arrested, while his accomplices remain at large, following the brutal attack and killing of a lobola middleman.
The incident stemmed from a dispute over what the family deemed an “insulting” bride price.
The now-deceased Alex Sibanda (35) reportedly presented an initial bride price of US$30 for the suspect’s daughter, a sum that incited anger within the family.
In a fit of rage, Farisai Zhou, Simbarashe Zhou, Inzwaishe Majaya and Isaac Majaya, assaulted Sibanda, resulting in his death.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the incident which occurred on February 11 in Madzvaruse Village, under the jurisdiction of Chief Mazhetese. Police said:
<blockquote>
Police in Mwenezi arrested, Farisai Zhou (47) in connection with a case of murder which occurred at Madzvaruse Village, Mazetese on 11/02/25 in which Alex Sibanda (35) died.
The suspect and his accomplices, Simbarashe Zhou, Inzwaishe Majaya and Isaac Majaya, took turns repeatedly assaulting the victim with a catapult and logs all over the body after a dispute.
The incident occurred after the victim, who was acting as an intermediary, had been sent with an initial bride price of USD 30.00 for Farisai Zhou’s daughter who had eloped. The other suspects are on the run.
</blockquote>

A man named Munyai was killed because he brought only $30 as payment for a bride. The family of the bride felt insulted by the low amount. The man was attacked by four people and died as a result. One person has been arrested, but others are still on the run. The incident happened in a village in Zimbabwe. The man who was killed was just trying to help negotiate the marriage, but it turned violent. The police are investigating the case.

"Munyai" Killed For Bringing US$30 As Lobola, In-laws Felt Insulted

The 2022 Marriage Act, which consolidated the previous separate laws for civil and customary marriages into a single law, did not outlaw the payment of lobola, according to a cabinet minister.
Lobola, also known as bride price, involves the groom’s family paying money or goods to the bride’s family as a sign of respect and appreciation for their daughter’s upbringing.
Some social media posts have recently claimed that the Marriage Act banned lobola for customary law marriages.
Responding to these claims, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/lobola-not-outlawed-in-new-act-minister/">The Herald</a> that the only significant change in the Act was the establishment of a minimum age of 18 for marriage. He said:
<blockquote>
Recent social media posts purporting to explain the meaning and scope of the provisions of the new Marriages Act (Chapter 5:17], which was promulgated in 2022, have been brought to my attention.
As the minister responsible for the administration of justice in the country and specifically assigned to administer the Marriages Act, I wish to categorically state that these social media posts are misleading, mischievous and deliberately intended to create alarm and despondency amongst the generality of the public.
</blockquote>
Ziyambi said the new legislation consolidates the laws governing all legally recognized marriages in the country into a single piece of legislation.
Before its promulgation, two separate Acts provided the legal framework for marriages: the Marriage Act [Chapter 5:11] for civil marriages and the Customary Marriages Act [Chapter 5:07] for registered customary marriages. Said Ziyambi:
<blockquote>
The new Act did not and does not alter the erstwhile requirements for a valid civil or registered customary law marriage, save to the limited extent of placing a complete prohibition on child marriages — thus bringing our marriage laws into conformity with Section 78(1)(a) of the Constitution, which prescribes the minimum age of marriage as 18 years.
To this end, it is important to point out that the payment of roora/lobola or marriage consideration remains a requirement for customary law marriages.
</blockquote>
Ziyambi explained that the new Act recognizes three types of legally recognised marriages: civil marriage, which is monogamous between one man and one woman; registered customary law marriage, which is polygamous or potentially polygamous and is contracted between adult Africans; and qualified civil marriage, which is also polygamous or potentially polygamous, primarily catering to adherents of the Islamic faith. He said:
<blockquote>
The latter type of marriage is a new inclusion in the country’s marriage laws.
</blockquote>
Apart from legally recognised marriages, there are two other domestic arrangements in Zimbabwe: unregistered customary unions and civil partnerships. 
Though these are not considered legal marriages, they can affect how assets are divided if the relationship ends or when a partner dies without a will, as well as matters concerning children.
<ul>
<li>Unregistered customary union: This can become a legally recognised marriage if registered. The new law also allows for converting a monogamous registered customary union into a registered civil union.</li>
<li>Civil partnership: These are acknowledged under the new Act but only for determining the rights and duties of the parties involved.</li>
</ul>
These arrangements aren’t legal marriages but are recognized for certain legal purposes.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The new Marriage Act in Zimbabwe didn't ban lobola payments. Lobola is when the groom's family pays the bride's family to show respect. The only big change in the law is setting 18 as the minimum age for marriage. There are three types of legal marriages: civil, registered customary, and qualified civil. Unregistered customary unions and civil partnerships are not legal marriages but can affect things like asset division and child matters. So, lobola is still allowed in customary law marriages, and some other types of marriages are recognized for certain purposes.

New Marriage Act Did Not Outlaw Lobola Payments, Says Minister

A Zimbabwean man based in South Africa, Shepherd Chipatiko, is demanding the return of approximately R1.6 million (US$91,000) that he spent on lobola (bride price) and marriage celebrations after his short-lived marriage to Varaidzo Marylyn Kunze collapsed in December 2023.
In addition to seeking the reimbursement of these substantial marital expenses, Chipatiko is also suing his ex-wife for R15,000, claiming that she had peddled falsehoods against him.
Furthermore, he has offered a R10,000 reward to anyone who can provide information on Varaidzo’s current whereabouts.
Chipatiko claimed that during their brief marriage, Varaidzo even suggested that he should marry her daughter, Thando Sibanda, an offer which he ultimately declined. He said:
<blockquote>
I now want her to refund me the lobola payment and celebrations amounting to R755 000, posh car for R385 000, Bitcoin loan of R100 000.
She made a misrepresentation of a fake pregnancy, R320 000, age misrepresentation, and about having one child when she has two kids. I also want R15 000 for defamation of character.
We separated last year in December and I gave her R188 000 to start her life after lying to me several times.
She lied that she was pregnant and she was dating someone here in SA.
She was weighing on who to stay with and I engaged the guy who also said she was a fraudster.
This woman lied about her age that she is 38 yet she was 48 and even promised to give me her daughter, who is 25 years.
She promised to destroy my reputation.
</blockquote>
Chipatiko’s legal representatives, the law firm Kevin James McCallum Attorneys, have taken additional steps in his pursuit of recouping the substantial financial investments he made into his short-lived marriage to Varaidzo.
In a formal letter dated 05 July 2024, Chipatiko’s lawyers have demanded that Varaidzo remove all defamatory social media posts she has made, which they argue have tarnished their client’s reputation.
Additionally, the lawyers have formally requested that Varaidzo repay the money Chipatiko spent on the customary marriage celebrations, including the lobola payment. The lawyers wrote:
<blockquote>
Removal of all your defamatory social media posts, a retraction statement to be issued to all the media outlets that you have contacted or been contacted whereby you defame our client and/or his wife, a formal public apology to be shared on every and all social media platforms you took to, to defame our client and/or his wife in the first place.
Repayment of the sum of R100 000 lent to you by our client aforementioned, repayment in the sum of R1 655 000 paid by our client for the customary marriage celebrations and lobola into which he would never have entered had it not been for your outrageous misrepresentations.
Payment in the sum of R15 000 for defamation of character as our client has suffered irreparable damages to his good standing, character, reputation, and loss of income incurred as a direct result of your spurious and vexatious defamatory mistruths shared about our client.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Man Seeks Refund Of R1.6 Million Lobola And After Party Costs From Ex-Wife

A 19-year-old man from Nyawiswa village appeared before the Karoi Magistrates’ Court, charged with stock theft. He had stolen a cow and used it to pay lobola for his bride.
The brief facts of the matter as outlined by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) are that on 12 April 2024, at around 6 PM, and at Dabvu homestead, the complainant penned his herd of cattle and went home.
During the same night, Locky Chigwengwe (19), went to the complainant’s cattle kraal untied a black cow with curved horns and drove it away unnoticed.
Chigwengwe used the stolen cow to pay lobola the following day to Ian Wamiridza of Muchena village.
The complainant noticed the missing beast the following morning at around 8 AM and reported the matter to the police.
Investigations were conducted and on 14 April 2024 Wamiridza was found in possession of the stolen cow and he implicated Chigwengwe leading to his arrest. The value of the stolen cow was US$400.
Chigwengwe was found guilty and sentenced to 9 years imprisonment.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Karoi Man Steals Cow To Pay Lobola

A 23-year-old man from Guruve was refunded part of the lobola money by his in-laws after he discovered that the woman was already pregnant before they became intimate.
The man, King Gumbira, took his wife Memory Makomo for blood tests, soon after paying lobola, and learnt that she was already pregnant, <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/man-loses-wife-soon-after-paying-lobola/">reported H-Metro</a>.
To compound his grief, Gumbira learned that his wife’s uncle, Jaifi Kafarawo, who is in his 30s, was reported to be the one responsible for the pregnancy.
Kafarawo allegedly abandoned his family, took Memory and left Guruve for Mt Darwin, after their incestuous affair was revealed.
Gumbira told H-Metro that his in-laws refunded part of his lobola after Memory revealed her adulterous relationship with her uncle. He said:
<blockquote>
I am yet to recover from the pain that I suffered. If I had bedded her before paying lobola, I could have been given a pregnant wife.
She never disclosed to me that she was dating another man besides disclosing that she was once raped by one of her sister’s husbands.
Her parents accepted my lobola and Memory disappeared from home soon after lobola.
She went to Mt Darwin during the night with her uncle and they were tracked until Memory was forced back home.
After she disclosed about the one who was responsible for her pregnancy, the family refunded part of my money.
Refunding of lobola is not enough considering the pain I suffered, the time I wasted as well as the trust I had given to Memory.
</blockquote>
Memory is said to be 15-years-old and Gumbira claims she said she is 17. This means Gumbira, the girl’s uncle and her parents violated the law.
In Zimbabwe, having sexual intercourse with a young person is a criminal act after President Emmerson Mnangagwa invoked the Presidential Powers Act to amend the Criminal Law Code to reinstate the age of consent to eighteen (18) years in January this year.
The age of consent is the age at which a person is considered to be legally competent to consent to sexual acts. It is the minimum age at which a person is considered old enough to be able to legally agree to sexual activity.
Statutory Instrument 2 of 2024 (Presidential Powers (Temporary Measures) (Criminal Laws (Protection of Children and Young Persons) Regulations, 2024) criminalised having sexual intercourse with anyone below the age of 18.
Furthermore, under Zimbabwe’s new Marriage Act, all marriages are entered into between men and women above 18 years of age. Facilitating marriage of children under 18 years is now considered a criminal offence.
The minimum age of marriage for both girls and boys is 18 years. It is a substantial crime to marry off a child, and anyone involved in such actions will be prosecuted.
Last week, a 26-year-old man from Mutare was sentenced to 20 months in jail following his conviction for having sexual intercourse with a young person.
In terms of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform Act) Act [Chapter 9:23], a “Young person” means a boy or girl under the age of eighteen years.
The man started indulging in sexual activities with the 14-year-old complainant in February 2024 at his homestead and thereafter had sexual relations with the complainant on different occasions.
The matter came to light when the girl suspected that she was pregnant and eloped to the accused person’s home.
The girl’s mother reported the matter to the Police leading to the man’s arrest.
The man was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment of which 4 months was suspended. He will serve 20 months effectively.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Guruve Man Reimbursed Lobola Money After His Wife Eloped To A Close Relative

A 40-year-old man who paid US$4 426 lobola with part of the US$195 000 he stole from Mahomed Mussa Wholesalers, his employer, has been sentenced to two years imprisonment.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mahomed-mussa-worker-who-paid-lobola-with-stolen-loot-jailed/">The Herald</a>, Chamunorwa Muvhuti, who was a merchandiser at Mahomed Mussa, was convicted by Harare magistrate Apollonia Marutya after finding him guilty of theft.
Muvhuti had pleaded guilty. In mitigation, he told the court that the employer was not paying enough.
Muvhuti was initially sentenced to 36 months in prison before six months were set aside on the condition that he would not commit a similar offence in the next five years.
Another six months were suspended on condition that Muvhuti pay US$5 000 restitution to Mohammed Mussa before 28 February 2024.
In handing down the sentence, Marutya stated that the court had considered that Muvhuti was a first offender and did not waste the court’s time and resources.
She said she recognised that Muvhuti was a family man and had children who are under-age to look after.
Most of the money was recovered and Muvhuti did not benefit enough from it. Said the magistrate:
<blockquote>
However, the accused breached the trust between him and the complainant who is the company.
</blockquote>
Allegations were that on 21 December 2023, at around 5 PM, Muvhuti connived with Jeremiah Kwenda and Phineas Moyo, who are security guards at Mohamed Mussa and hid in the shop where he was locked inside when it closed.
He used a sharp metal object to break a black portable safe away from the wall and took it away.
On 22 December, the business discovered the safe was missing and made a police report.
On 25 December, detectives arrested Muvhuti in Mupande Village, Chief Chitsungo in Pfungwe, where he had gone to pay lobola to his in-laws.
The court heard that Muvhuti led the police to the recovery of US$186 100 at his home in Chitungwiza.
Muvhuti also led police to the recovery of a black portable safe that was positively identified by the complainant as the one that had been stolen from the shop together with the US$195 000.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mahomed Mussa Worker Who Paid Lobola With Stolen Money Sentenced To Two Years In Jail

An employee at <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mahommed_Mussa/">Mahommed Mussa</a> Wholesalers, a company in Zimbabwe, recently stole a substantial amount of money, totalling $195,000. He used some of the stolen funds to pay for lobola, a traditional marriage payment.
Information Secretary Nick Mangwana said the incident came to light on Christmas day when police officers swooped in and confiscated both the stolen money and the groceries that were purchased with it. He said:
<blockquote>
MAMPARA MUKWASHA So this guy stole US$195k from Mahomed Mussa Wholesalers where he worked, and went to pay Lobola with some of it. Imagine during Christmas detectives pouncing at the in-laws’ homestead confiscating all grocery items brought in and lobola money. Crime doesn’t pay
</blockquote>
Some commentators said while theft is an unquestionably condemnable act, the focus should be on why the company was keeping large sums of cash on their premises instead of depositing it in a bank. They say the case highlights the lack of confidence that exists within the traditional banking sector in Zimbabwe. Award-winning journalist Hopewell Chin’ono aid:
<blockquote>
Chin’ono said the root cause is what the government represented by Nick Mangwana should address, not just the symptoms. Police wouldn’t need to have their time and personnel deployed for these types of crimes if the banking system was working and citizens had confidence in it.
</blockquote>
According to Chin’ono, the government should address the root cause of this issue rather than merely focusing on the symptoms. He said if the banking system was functioning effectively and citizens had faith in it, the police would not need to devote their time and resources to crimes of this nature.
Confidence in the banking sector has been diminishing in Zimbabwe since the hyperinflation crisis in 2008, which resulted in the erosion of depositors’ bank balances. Matters were further exacerbated when the Zimbabwe dollar was reintroduced in 2019. Initially, the government set the local currency at an equal value to the United States dollar, leading banks to convert USD balances into Zimbabwe dollars. However, the Zimbabwe dollar subsequently lost value, causing depositors to suffer losses.
As a consequence of these events, many individuals have resorted to “pillow banking,” whereby they choose to keep their money at home or in alternative locations instead of placing it in banks. This behaviour stems from a fear that changes in government policies could potentially erode their savings. Unfortunately, this trend has made businesses and individuals prime targets for armed robberies, as criminals are aware that substantial amounts of cash are being stored outside of banks.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Mahomed Mussa Wholesalers Employee Steals US$195,000, Pays Lobola With Some Of It

The High Court has set aside a decision that ordered a Karoi man to pay back US$2 700 bride price to his son-in-law after his wife cheated on him, reported <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/relief-for-man-ordered-to-pay-back-bride-price-in-adultery-case/">H-Metro</a>.
Charles Bandera sued his son-in-law, Maxmillan Kondowe, appealing against a default judgment that ordered him to return the money after his daughter, Shumirai Bandera, committed adultery.
Maxmillan married Shumirai at a ceremony in Karoi sometime in March 2021 but was told he could only start living with her as his wife after their wedding.
But just two months after the lobola ceremony, Maxmillan discovered that Shumirai was sexually involved with another man. He confronted her and she allegedly confessed to the adultery in Harare.
Maxmillan went on to institute customary marriage divorce proceedings and the couple’s marriage was dissolved in January 2022.
He then served summons on Kondowe his father-in-law to return his bride price.
Kondowe failed to enter his appearance to defend the action leading the court to grant a default judgment in August 2022 that ordered him to return Maxmillan’s bride price.
After discovering that a Messenger of Court was deployed to execute the judgment, Kondowe applied for rescission of the same which was countered by Maxmillan’s application to stay the execution.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

High Court Rescinds Order For Father-in-law To Pay Back Lobola

A woman from Chigodora who lent her husband money for her lobola has been divorced after demanding the money back, reported <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/woman-pays-own-lobola/">The Manica Post</a>.
The woman, Jennifer Maparanyanga claimed that her husband, Kenny Mlambo was loving and caring during the first few years of their marriage but became abusive after she asked him to pay back the US$300 that she loaned him for her bride price.
The matter was recently heard by Headman Chigodora’s court where Jennifer was accompanied by her father, Phineas Maparanyanga.
Jennifer claimed she had tried to seek help from the police and family elders, all in vain. She said:
<blockquote>
When he eventually paid the money, he told me that the money was now my husband since I loved it so much.
He started coming home late and would sleep clad in his work suits, denying me my conjugal rights. He says the money should fulfil those matrimonial duties.
</blockquote>
Jennifer told the community court that she only agreed to help Mlambo with the lobola money due to her love for him and the fact that she desperately wanted to get married. She said:
<blockquote>
He told me that he wanted to marry me but only had US$600, which to him was very little and disrespectful to my father.
I lent him US$300 to top up his money. He promised to pay back the money the following month but failed to do so.
I was shocked when Mlambo and the go-between only paid the US$300 that I had given him.
I asked him about the other US$600 that he had claimed he had, and he told me that he had used it to buy the clothes they were putting on during the ceremony.
He said the rest of the money had been confiscated by his mother.
</blockquote>
Jennifer’s father, Phineas Maparanyanga, said he was hurting because Mlambo was staying with his daughter for “free” as she had paid her own lobola. He said:
<blockquote>
She was trying to keep this issue under wraps because she loves her husband. However, one day, I interrogated her about why they were always fighting. She told me the genesis of their endless fights.
She burst into tears, confessing that she had unknowingly paid her own lobola. I was hurt because Mlambo tricked my daughter.
Up to now, I am still hurt because he is staying with my daughter for “free”.
</blockquote>
Mlambo said he wants to divorce Jennifer for spreading lies that he is dysfunctional in bed. He said:
<blockquote>
She is pregnant, yet she tells me that I am useless in bed and that I sleep in my work suits. Had I been useless in bed, she would not be pregnant.
Why does she insist that I am responsible for the pregnancy? I now believe that she is carrying someone else’s baby.
I want her out of my life but her parents are refusing to take her back because they claim that I tricked her into paying her own lobola. I have since paid the money that I owed her,
</blockquote>
In his ruling, Headman Chigodora said it was an abomination that Mlambo had made his wife pay her own lobola.
The traditional leader ordered Mlambo to pay damages to the Maparanyanga family. Said Headman Chigodora:
<blockquote>
Since you no longer want their daughter after you tricked her into marrying herself, you will have to pay damages of US$3 000.
You did not pay any lobola to the Maparanyangas since it was their daughter’s money that you paid them during the lobola ceremony.
What you did was very disrespectful to your in-laws and your wife. You are a trickster, and for that, you need to work hard and pay the damages to them.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Woman Pays Own Lobola

The Mutare Magistrates Civil Court has dismissed an application for a lobola refund by an aggrieved bridegroom.
<a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/court-quashes-mans-lobola-refund-bid/">The Manica Post</a> reported that Eddington Machingauta had dragged his in-laws, Godwin Madenga and Betty Gombarume, as well as his estranged flame, Patricia Chantelle Madenga to the court, demanding restitution of US$4 240 which he claimed to have paid as bride price.
Machingauta was represented by Makuwaza &amp; Magogo Attorneys, while the defendants were represented by Chris Ndlovu of Gonese and Ndlovu Legal Practitioners.
Madenga dismissed the claim that Machingauta paid US$4 240 as bride price saying he only paid US$500 towards lobola, with the other payments “not constituting lobola perse”.
Presiding magistrate, Priscilla Gumbo dismissed Machingauta’s application saying his motives were not clear. Ruled the magistrate:
<blockquote>
It is still unclear why you decided to lay dormant after paying lobola and only decided to resurface demanding a refund of the lobola.
This raises questions on whether the applicant wanted his wife or if it was all a sham.
My belief is the applicant would have taken the necessary actions to have his wife back if he truly wanted the marriage to subsist.
</blockquote>
Gumbo ruled that Machingauta is not entitled to a refund since the marriage was never dissolved as he did not offer his wife a divorce token “gupuro”.
Allegations were that on 09 August, Machingauta visited his in-laws at their Pegasus house in Dangamvura in the company of his family to set a date for lobola payment and was given a bride price list with a total of US$11 240.
Machingauta only managed to pay US$3 690 and groceries worth US$550, making it a total of US$4 240.
After receiving the lobola, the bride’s parents refused to hand over their daughter to Machingauta as they insisted that he needed to top up the money.
Between August and October, Machingauta and Patricia’s relationship turned sour, prompting the woman to change her mind and opt out of the marriage.
Machingauta said that he tried to negotiate with his in-laws so that they could either restitute his money and groceries or give him his wife, all to no avail.
However, the father-in-law said Machingauta was called to come and take his wife, but he refused to do so.
The defendants’ attorney, Ndlovu, argued that lobola is a customary law practice and tradition, but the complainant had sued his clients under general law and not under customary law.
He said Machingauta should go through proper channels to solve the matter.
The lawyer further argued that lobola is a transaction between a son-in-law and his father-in-law, hence Machingauta cannot sue his mother-in-law and his estranged wife.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Court Dismisses Man’s Lobola Refund Application

A Zimbabwean man is suing his father-in-law to recover US$2 700 he paid as bride price (lobola) alleging that his new wife cheated before their wedding.
According to a <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/man-sues-father-in-law-to-recover-lobola-after-new-wife-cheats/">ZimLive</a> report, Maxmillan Tapiwa Kondowe won a default judgement against Charles Bandera at the civil court but two High Court judges have granted him temporary reprieve by allowing him to appeal.
Justices Benjamin Chikowero and Samuel Deme, sitting as an appeal court, on Monday barred Kondowe from executing the default judgment pending the outcome of his appeal. Said Chikowero:
<blockquote>
In our view, there was no evidence of deliberateness that was placed before the court a quo and hence there was no wilful default.
</blockquote>
Kondowe told the civil court that sometime in March 2021, he paid the bride price for Shumirai Bandera from Karoi.
He said that after the ceremony, he was not allowed by the bride’s father to immediately start living with his wife until after their wedding.
<figure class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 960px"><img alt="" decoding="async" height="676" loading="lazy" src="https://www.zimlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/shumirai-bandera-1000.jpg" width="960"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Shumirai Bandera (Picture Credit: ZmLive)</figcaption></figure>
Kondowe claimed that two months after the lobola ceremony, but before the wedding, he discovered WhatsApp messages on his wife’s phone showing that she was dating another man.
He said he confronted his wife who allegedly admitted having cheated.
Kondowe divorced his wife and took his father-in-law to the small claims court demanding his lobola back.
Bandera was served with a summons but failed to enter an appearance to defend.
Kondowe then successfully applied for default judgment against the Bandera.
When Bandera found out that the Messenger of Court wanted to execute the default judgment, he proceeded to apply for a rescission of the judgement.
He applied for an interim order for a stay of execution of the default judgment which was dismissed by the civil court.
Bandera then appealed to the High Court which has paused the execution of judgement until the matter is heard.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Man Sues Father-in-law To Recover Lobola After New Wife Cheats Before Wedding

Zimbabwean men can now pay roora/lobola only if they want to do so as a bride price is now a moral decision rather than a legal requirement under the New Marriages Act.
This was said by the director of the Law Development Commission (LDC), Netsai Zvakasikwa, during a recent interactive public legal awareness meeting aimed at clarifying the main provisions of the recently enacted Act, in Masvingo Province.
Zvakasikwa said that although the Government acknowledges moral values and cultural customs surrounding marriages, the payment of bride price is no longer obligatory. The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/lobola-payment-optional-new-marriages-act/">Chronicle</a> quoted Zvakasikwa as saying:
<blockquote>
Chiefs have expressed disapproval of the Civil Marriages Act provision stating that “roora” consideration is no longer a requirement.
However, as indigenous Zimbabweans, we are attempting to make it clear that we did not create the civil marriage system; rather, we inherited it.
</blockquote>
Some traditional leaders believe that the changes to marriage laws are a threat to Zimbabwe’s prevalent marriage culture where the payment of bride price is key.
Zvakasikwa said people should continue adhering to their traditional marriage practices. She said:
<blockquote>
As a result, we are continuing the civil marriage tradition, much as our former colonisers did, though our values and customs still emanate from Zimbabwe.
We are not advocating that you ignore the required “roora” payment in order to comply with the Act.
Though the Act’s provisions stipulate that it is no longer required, do it because it is part of our culture.
</blockquote>
LDC deputy chair, Rex Shana said soon, villagers will no longer need to travel to cities to solemnise marriages as traditional leaders will be designated to officiate customary marriages. He said:
<blockquote>
Chiefs will soon be designated to officiate customary marriages within their respective jurisdictions following the new requirements.
According to the recently passed statute, chiefs are awaiting induction. We are not abolishing their customs; however, the Act has introduced new obligations, such as verifying that the couple getting married is at least eighteen years old and that they are unrelated in any way, meaning that a brother cannot wed a sister or a cousin. Cousins by birth cannot get married.
</blockquote>
The LDC is conducting nationwide legal awareness meetings on the Marriages Act [Chapter 5:17] enlightening communities about the new law and its applicability to them.
LDC is responsible for conducting research, making recommendations, and providing legal advice to the government and other stakeholders on matters related to law and justice.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Men No Longer Under An Obligation To Pay Lobola

A Mutasa couple was reportedly married for a few minutes before the bride’s parents broke off the union after finding out that the man was not a virgin, and was in fact, a divorcee.
The man, Prince Stefano (30) of Mandeya Village, told <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/marriage-lasts-a-few-minutes/">The Manica Post</a> that he paid a bride price of US$345 for 21-year-old Chiedza Mudzedze who is said to be a virgin. He said:
<blockquote>
I paid US$345 as the bride price. That is what had been communicated to me. However, when we went for the bride price-paying ceremony, they demanded US$800, which I did not have.
They said they would only give me my wife after paying the full amount, but these were only delaying tactics.
They did not want me to marry Chiedza because they had found out that I have a nine-year-old son.
</blockquote>
Stefano said he paid the bride price on 3 March this year but the Mudzedze family recently informed him that they would refund him his money. He said:
<blockquote>
Chiedza is a virgin, I understand, but her family is just bitter. Her bitter sister sent me voice notes saying I was a pauper and that as a family, they had agreed that I will not be able to take care of her sister.
</blockquote>
He said he has approached Chiedza’s family to get a reimbursement, but they seem reluctant to refund him.
Chiedza, who is from Nyatsuro Village, Honde Valley, told The Manica Post that she is worth more than US$345 as she is a virgin. She said:
<blockquote>
I am a virgin and where in this world have you heard of a virgin being married for that lousy amount? I am still young.
I am only 21 and will eventually find someone worthy of me, someone who has never been with another woman.
Prince wasted my time and lied to me that he was a virgin too. Had I not probed him, he would not have told me of his previous marriage.
I will not compete with another woman for him. Do you think his ex-wife will be happy if she hears that he married me?
We will give him his money but on our own terms. He should stop sending people here. You can also tell him that he is a loser.
</blockquote>
Chiedza’s sister, who refused to identify herself, said Prince disrespected her family for showing up for the lobola ceremony dressed in a pair of ripped Denim trousers, a work-suit jacket and some crocs slippers. She said:
<blockquote>
It was shameful for him to show up like that. What sort of dressing is that? We will not have it as a family.
It shows that he is very disrespectful. We will refund him when we feel like it.
As it is, we feel as if we deserve that money because they did not even bring any groceries, save for one chicken.
We prepared them our food, yet they had come with a car. They pretended to be well up, yet they are not.
</blockquote>
Prince’s aunt, Tsitsi Munyebvu Stefano said her family is planning to report the matter to the traditional leadership of the area so that they get a refund. She said:
<blockquote>
This is a family of crooks. They should have told us that they had decided otherwise before accepting Prince’s money.
I don’t know why Prince went for the lobola ceremony while donning a pair of ripped jeans and informal shoes.
What I know is that he is a good man. He did not know that he had a son until last year when his ex-wife told him.
Can that really be held against someone? I do not think so.
The families should find each other so that we can move forward. We love our daughter-in-law and I believe she also loves Prince.
</blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, virginity is highly valued as a sign of purity, chastity, and moral fortitude but in most cases focus is on the bride rather than the bridegroom.
It is believed that a virgin wife will be more faithful, loyal, and submissive to her husband.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Marriage" Ends After In-laws Demand Lobola Top Up

A female student at Morgan Zintec Teachers College in Harare allegedly faked her death in a bid to fool her lover.
Pictures of the student, only identified as Shantel, seemingly dead and covered halfway with a blanket, accompanied by the fake death message emerged prompting her grieving college mates to open a WhatsApp condolence group.
However, one of Shantel’s friends disclosed that she was still alive though her whereabouts were not revealed.
Morgan Zintec principal, Tonderai Zenda, told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/student-fakes-death-to-fool-lover/">H-Metro</a> the message disturbed a number of students, who were writing their examinations. Said Zenda:
<blockquote>
Shantel is one of our bridging course students. She was supposed to be among students sitting for final examinations, but she missed some of the sittings.
We heard a rumour about her death but later learnt that she is alive.
She has not been here since the rumour went around and we are also keen to know from her what happened. It disturbed some students.
</blockquote>
A close relative of Shantel said pictures circulating on social media were taken two years ago adding that she is still alive.
H-Metro reported sources as saying Shantel faked her death after she had directed her lover to some people to pay lobola money.
After the lover paid the bride price, Shantel was reported to have devised a plan to fake her own death.
Some people were reportedly hired to act as Shantel’s relatives during the lobola ceremony.
The lover was fooled to believe he was communicating with Shantel’s mother about the death.

Female Student Fakes Death After Boyfriend Pays Lobola

France-based Warriors utility player Marshall Munetsi on Wednesday, 21 September paid roora / lobola (bride price) for his fiancée Anotida Makove.
The event was attended by both families and friends of the couple.
The Mabvuku-born footballer is in the country during this international football break.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/family-marshal-football-star-munetsi-pays-lobola-for-sweetheart/">H-Metro</a>, Munetsi expressed excitement over the new chapter in his life. He said:
<blockquote>
First of all, I want to thank God, who made this possible. We are happy that this day was a success.
I’m happy with the new chapter that has begun in my life.
What has happened today is proof of our love and we are happy that our family and friends have supported us.
We are glad to share this day, and moments, with them.
</blockquote>
Anotida said she is grateful to God for answering her prayers. She said:
<blockquote>
This is an act of God’s favour, in our lives, and I’m thankful to him for giving me a friend and partner and, most of all, someone who knows the Lord.
We share the same values and beliefs. He is someone I’ve always prayed for.
I’m happy that God has answered our prayers and that we were able to make our parents proud.
</blockquote>
Munetsi’s mother, Sarudzai Filipi, who is based in Portugal, said the family welcomes the new daughter-in-law. She said:
<blockquote>
When someone decides to pay lobola it shows that he’s mature and responsible.
I’m happy that my son is now married to the woman whom we all love and know that she is God-fearing and is good for him.
We welcome her into our family and we love and appreciate her.
As a mother, I want to wish them well as they begin their new journey.
</blockquote>
Munetsi’s entourage included Warriors manager, Wellington Mpandare, and Dynamos vice-captain, Godknows Murwira, among others.
Marshall and Anotida will wed at a date and place yet to be revealed.

Warriors Star Marshall Munetsi Pays Lobola For Sweetheart

Jiti musician <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Baba_Harare">Baba Harare</a>, whose real name is Braveman Chizvino, has criticised Shadaya for what he considers his extreme views on women.
Posting on Twitter, Shadaya Knight said women should value their virginity and suggested that men should not pay roora / lobola (bride price) when they marry girls and women who are no longer virgins.
Baba Harare argued that the responsibility was also on men to protect the purity of young women.
Speaking during an interview with <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/shadaya-under-fire/">H-Metro</a>, Baba Harare said Shadaya’s views only serve to further fuel division between men and women. He said:
<blockquote>
Shadaya’s views are polarising. There are some who will support his controversial views and there are some that will loathe him.
Normally, I applaud him for starting conversations, but some of his views on women are problematic and can actually start a hate campaign.
A society’s evolution is measured by the way it treats and values its women.
Women are the backbone of our society. They represent life, order and unconditional love.
</blockquote>
<h2>What did Shadaya say?</h2>
Shadaya, whose posts on social media are controversial, has angered some women who consider his views extremely patriarchal. <a href="https://twitter.com/ShadayaKnight/status/1571396624525529089">He wrote on Twitter:</a>
<blockquote>
For an African man, the moment you decide to pay lobola for a wvman you didn’t devirgin, that signifies the defeat of your manhood.
Lobola is a token of appreciation, so what exactly are you appreciating here, that other men didn’t see fit to appreciate?
Lobola is our culture, imagine denigrating our culture to celebrate a cultural delinquent. In our culture, virg!nity is of paramount importance.
But here you’re celebrating the opposite, instead of shaming it, your ancestors will be ashamed.
What a disgrace to your lineage And with your woke-ism you’ll defend your stup!dity saying “it’s not just about sex” well you should know the previous men got also those other qualities for free.
She cooked, washed, and cleaned for him. Nywe nywe it’s about building a family, well, she also gave him a kid(s) If there’s none, she probably has damaged her womb on contraceptives, family planning pills, jadel, morning after pills, heck even once or twice, she abort3d.
Her womb is a mess, loaded with more chemicals than a laboratory. If this was in football, what you’re doing is no different from breaking the bank for an old washed-up has been player, instead of getting that player on a free transfer.
How do you even look at yourself, aren’t you asham3d of yourself/ You have basically admitted that the men who had her before you are superior to you, what they couldn’t commit to, only you can.
Settling for another man’s l3ftovers. Have some shame, what a disgrace. Learn or perish!!!
</blockquote>

Baba Harare Criticises Shadaya's Views On Virginity, Lobola

The Zimbabwe Women Lawyers, Veritas, and CGTN have independently put together fact sheets on the new <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Marriages_Act_Factsheet:01">Marriages Act</a> indicating the basics that can help members of the public understand the essence of it. Marriages Act Chapter 5:15 is the new law regulating all marriages in Zimbabwe. It was made into law on the 27th of May 2022. 
Law expert, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere">Fadzayi Mahere</a> says a lot of the provisions are yet to be tested in a court of law and there are many legal issues that arise from the Act. Pindula News presents the salient points to note from the Marriages Act:
<h2>1. AGE OF MARRIAGE </h2>
<blockquote>
• The minimum age of marriage is 18 years for both girls and boys. It is, therefore, a crime to marry off a child and anyone involved in that will be prosecuted. It is a substantial crime if the parents or guardians are involved.
</blockquote>
<h2>2. CONSENT </h2>
<blockquote>
• There must be free and full consent of anyone wanting to get married.
</blockquote>
<h2>3. TYPES OF MARRIAGES: </h2>
<blockquote>
a). A civil marriage is a monogamous marriage between a man and a woman.
b). A registered customary marriage is potentially polygamous and done according to customary rites.
c). A qualified marriage is a union contracted according to religious rites which is not registrable as civil or customary marriage and is potentially polygamous.
A registered customary law marriage may be converted to a civil marriage.
</blockquote>
<h2>4. UNREGISTERED CUSTOMARY LAW UNIONS (KUBVISIRANA PFUMA) </h2>
<blockquote>
• Unregistered customary law unions are not recognised marriages
• Unions contracted after the new ACT must register within 3 months of the date of the union.
• However, unions that existed before this ACT must be registered within 12 months.
• Failure to register does not invalidate the union, guardianship, custody and the rights of succession of children in such a marriage. (limited recognition).
</blockquote>
<h2>5. CIVIL PARTNERSHIP (KUBIKA MAPOTO) </h2>
<blockquote>
• It is not a marriage but recognised ONLY for purposes of property sharing It is a relationship of a man and a woman above the age of 18 years living together on a genuine domestic basis It can co-exist with any other marriage including a Cavil marriage.
</blockquote>
<h2>6. EQUAL STATUS OF ALL MARRIAGES </h2>
<blockquote>
• All marriages are equal. there t5., no marriage superior to the other.
</blockquote>
<h2>7. LOBOLA </h2>
<blockquote>
• For customary law marriages the agreement relating to lobola or marriage consideration is necessary Customary law formalities are a prerequisite.
</blockquote>
<h2>8. EQUAL RIGHTS </h2>
<blockquote>
• Parties to a marriage have equal rights and obligations during the subsistence of the marriage and at its dissolution. 
</blockquote>
<h2>9. MARRIAGE OFFICERS: </h2>
<blockquote>
a. Magistrates 
b. Ministers of religion 
c. Chiefs (they solemnise customary marriages) 
d. Heads of embassies 
</blockquote>
<h2>10. DIVORCE LAW (MATRIMONIAL CAUSES ACT) </h2>
<blockquote>
• The law on divorce applies to all types of marriages and civil partnerships. but does not apply to unregistered customary law unions. 
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

What The Marriages Act Of Zimbabwe Say On Age, Polygamy, Custody, Property

Four people were killed in South Africa’s Limpopo Province on Saturday when a wall collapsed on guests during a lobola ceremony in GaChuene Thokgwaneng.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Brig Motlafela Mojapelo said the police in Lebowakgomo have opened an inquest docket and had identified the deceased as Tiisetso Bushy Macheka, 36, Lesego Ribisi of Hwelereng village, 18, Phinias Maripane Kganyago of Gamashashane and Samson Sambo, who died at Lebowakgomo hospital.
Family spokesperson and brother to the bride, Phinias Yika said they were still in shock following the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
As the Yika family, we are still in shock about what happened on Saturday. It was supposed to be a celebration day as they were paying a bride price for my sister … it was a lobola negotiation ceremony.
</blockquote>
Reports indicate that people attending the ceremony were seated in a tent that was positioned next to an unroofed building when strong winds blew.
The wall collapsed, killing three instantly and injuring several others. One of the injured later died in hospital.
Yika said the incident happened quickly. It was at about 5 pm when the wind started picking up. He said the tent was not hinged to the wall. Said Yika:
<blockquote>
It was 1.5m or 2m away from the wall. The wind was so strong and collapsed the wall. It fell on top of the tent while people were inside. It happened so fast.
After a few minutes, there was dust and we couldn’t see what happened, but we knew that there were people inside [the tent].
After getting a clear view of what happened, that is when we saw that there were people trapped inside and we tried to remove them.
</blockquote>
Yika said the bride and her in-laws had already left when the incident occurred. He added:
<blockquote>
For the lobola negotiations, we finished early, from about 12 pm to 1 pm. The in-laws said they were going to fetch their bride at about 5 pm.
Immediately after they left, the disaster started. They had already left with their bride and most of the people had left to accompany the bride.
The few who were remaining and were involved in the incident were the ones who were left behind.
</blockquote>
Yika said it was not uncommon for roads in the area to be damaged and roofs to be blown away during windy and rainy weather.
Limpopo social development MEC Nkakareng Rakgoale sent her condolences to the families of the victims.
Department spokesperson Witness Tiva said a team of social workers had been deployed to provide psychosocial support to the families and other affected parties.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2021-10-05-family-in-shock-after-wall-collapse-kills-4-at-lobola-ceremony/">TimesLive</a></h4>

4 People Die After A Wall Collapses During Lobola Negotiation Ceremony

The government is prepared to compromise and agree to the inclusion of the payment of lobola as a legal requirement for registering customary unions in the proposed integrated Marriages Act.
This comes after traditional leaders, in the Senate, rejected a clause in the Bill which stipulates that payment of lobola must not be used as a prerequisite for a couple to register any marriage.
The clause says only the couple can make any conditions for marriage and that no one else can grant or withhold permission for a union.
Chiefs, however, insist that bride price was the hallmark of any customary union and have therefore steadfastly rejected the government’s argument that lobola could not be used as an obstacle in solemnising marriage by two consenting adults.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi steered debate on the Bill again in the Senate on Wednesday, proposing that the Bill be passed, capturing the concerns of the traditional leaders over the lobola issue.
Ziyambi said continued deferment of the passage of the Bill over just one point had the effect of prejudicing the nation of other pertinent benefits in the proposed law such as criminalising child marriage which has been a menace in society of late.
Following a protracted debate, there was no headway resulting in another adjournment of the debate on the Bill.
The adjournment would now mean that the Bill would be re-tabled during the Fourth Session of the Ninth Parliament.
The Constitution provides that where the Senate and National Assembly disagrees on a Bill, it is the view of the National Assembly that will prevail, but Ziyambi said he was reluctant to take that route.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/well-compromise-on-lobola-law-ziyambi/">The Herald</a></h4>

Govt Prepared To Compromise On Lobola Law

A Rusape family will rue the day their daughter got married as their father was assaulted to death by a group of machete-wielding gang sometimes referred to as MaShurugwi demanding that he gives them the money paid as the bride price, New Zimbabwe reports.
The sad incident was narrated by Manicaland province deputy police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Luxson Chananda who said MaShurugwi assaulted Boas Mamutse of Gweremwezhe village demanding money he received as lobola for one of his daughters and burial society money:
<blockquote>The gang (MaShurugwi) stormed the home at around 7pm on the day to find the now deceased Boas Mamutse of Gweremwezhe village relaxing in the kitchen with his wife Thandiwe Makuyana (54). The gang forcibly entered the kitchen wearing face masks and woollen hats, holding knives, machetes and wooden sticks.
They demanded the lobola money from Mamutse but were told there was no money. The gang started assaulting Mamutse and his wife with sticks. Two of the suspects tied the deceased’s two daughters, aged 16 and 19, who were cooking in another kitchen. They went on to tie the whole family with ropes.
They took turns to assault the now deceased several times on the body with sticks demanding lobola which was paid recently for one of his daughters. The suspects also demanded burial society money as the deceased was the treasurer of the group. Mamutse reportedly tried to fight one of the suspects but was struck with an axe on the head and he fell down.
The suspects dragged Mamutse out of the kitchen to his bedroom where they further assaulted him. The suspects took US$7 and an undisclosed amount in local currency and vanished from the scene leaving the family tied with cloths and rope.
One of daughters managed to untie herself and she went to the bedroom where they found their father bleeding profusely from a cut on the head and having difficulty in breathing. She screamed and drew their neighbour’s attention, Joseph Terere, 66, who rushed to the scene.</blockquote>
Mamutse was pronounced dead on arrival at Rusape general hospital and the gang of Mashurugwi that killed him is still at large, ZRP is appealing to members of the public who might know the gang that committed the crime to come forward.
Mashurugwi caused a reign of terror in gold-rich areas in Zimbabwe early this year and reportedly killed one police <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/30/mashurugwi-clubs-a-cop-to-death-in-a-suspected-revenge-mission/">officer constable Wonder Hokoyo. </a>
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/machete-gang-storms-home-kills-father-over-lobola-money/">New Zimbabwe </a>

MaShurugwi Kills Rusape Man For Not Producing Lobola Money Paid For His Daughter

Contrary to claims that the government has banned “roora/lobola” (bride price), the Marriages Bill which is before Parliament does not seek to do so, a cabinet minister has said.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said that the Bill seeks to prohibit marriage officers from requesting proof of payment of lobola when solemnising a customary marriage. Said Ziyambi:
<blockquote>In terms of our current marriages laws, there are two types of marriages: civil and customary marriages.
What has been happening is that in the case of civil marriage, a couple would go to the marriage officer to solemnise the marriage with no questions being asked about payment of lobola.
As long as the couple satisfies the requirements set out in the law, they solemnise the marriage through their marriage certificate.
However, in terms of a customary marriage, the marriage officer would ask whether lobola had been paid to the bride’s family.
That requirement had to be satisfied first before the marriage is solemnised.
What the new law will do now is that requirement will fall away.
But this does not mean we are saying people should not pay lobola, no!
Lobola will still be paid, but the provision requiring the marriage officer to request proof of lobola payment is the one we have done away with.
The groom is still required to pay the bride price to the bride’s family as has been happening all along.
It is only that when registering a customary union, the marriage officer is no longer required to satisfy himself that the bride price has been paid.
There is no abolition of lobola.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/lobola-hasnt-been-banned-ziyambi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

No! Lobola Has NOT Been Banned

A family that was robbed all of the lobola money they had received from their in-laws spoke to The Chronicle and said they suspected a family member was behind the robbery.
Mr Ndlovu the father of the bride said:
<blockquote>…I assume that these robbers were monitoring our movements during the party right up to the time we went home and they waited for us to sleep for them to pounce.
They also knew that the bulk of the money was with me and some of it had remained at the other homestead. I’m really saddened by this tragic event. It left us traumatised and shaken as we thought these people would kill us. We suspect that a family member could be behind this.</blockquote>
Armed robbers pounced on <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/01/15/armed-robbers-pounce-on-family-at-ungodly-hours-take-over-r50k-lobola-money/">Mr Ndlovu and his family the night his daughter got married and took the entire lobola money including Mr Ndlovu’s savings</a> and some cellphones before deflating their tyres and leaving.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/r50k-lobola-robbery-family-suspects-relative/">The Chronicle</a>

The Family That Lost R50K Lobola Money Talks About The Heist

Musician Tytan has dismissed allegations that his wife Olinda helped him raise lobola money.
In an interview with H-Metro Tytan said he saved his own money to pay lobola. Said Tytan:
<blockquote>Those who know me will always tell you than I am a hard worker doing a lot of things in life. By the way, I am a creative designer and brand manager doing consultancy work both at home and the UK. I have been holding a number of gigs in the UK realising at least 1000 pounds per week and I was saving money for the ceremony because I knew the day (to pay lobola) was coming. I don’t care what people will say because munhu ndewangu, ende hazvichinji.</blockquote>
When asked to reveal how much he paid for Olinda Chapel, Tytan said he could not do so. Said Tytan:
<blockquote>I can’t do (reveal lobola money) that for the good of my family. As a family, we deserve our privacy, I can’t tell you the figure because it’s too personal.</blockquote>
More: <a href="http://hmetro.co.zw/olinda-is-mine-tytan/">H-Metro</a>

Tytan Responds To Allegations Olinda Helped Him Raise Lobola Money

Musician Tytan has paid lobola for his girlfriend Olinda Chapel. The two started dating after Olinda broke up with ex-husband Stunner, real name Desmond Chideme. Olinda received a lot of media attention for the domestic issues with Stunner. At one point, she threatened to commit suicide on Facebook Live.
Watch the video below:
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