By Tinotenda Hove

A self-proclaimed spiritual healer has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for raping a congregant in Mutare. The 44-year-old madzibaba was found guilty by the Mutare Regional Magistrates’ Court of sexually assaulting a 46-year-old woman who had sought his help for severe menstrual bleeding.

The victim had initially sought the madzibaba’s assistance, believing he could provide spiritual healing. However, he took advantage of her vulnerability, claiming that evil spirits were responsible for her condition. He then raped her at a river near Gimboki, convincing her that it was part of the healing ritual.

The victim’s husband later discovered the assault, and a police report was filed, leading to the madzibaba’s arrest. This case highlights the alarming trend of fake healers exploiting vulnerable individuals, often under the guise of spiritual healing.

The sentence handed down by the court sends a strong message that such abuses of power and trust will not be tolerated. However, it also raises important questions about the need for greater accountability and regulation of spiritual healers, as well as increased protection for vulnerable individuals who may be targeted by predators.