Tinotenda Hove – Two six-year-old twin brothers from Chivhu are now receiving urgent medical care at Chitungwiza Central Hospital after allegedly suffering severe abuse at the hands of their biological father in a case that has shocked the community.

The children reportedly sustained serious injuries, including deep burn wounds and broken legs, following an alleged attack that was triggered by accusations that they had taken sugar without permission.

Their mother, Rebecca Pfukamayi, broke down as she recounted how she only discovered the ordeal after police reached out to her to collect the children and rush them for treatment.

“We had separated before the twins were born, and I later remarried. The children had been staying with me without any issues,” she said. “Last December, their father asked to take them, saying he wanted to support their schooling. But from January, they stopped going to school. I only became aware of what had happened when police called me to come and get them so they could receive medical attention.”

She further alleged that the children were subjected to prolonged mistreatment in the home.

“They were beaten after being accused of taking sugar. They were also not being properly cared for and sometimes forced to sleep outside. What is most painful is that after they were injured, no one at the home took them for medical help. It was neighbours who raised the alarm and contacted the police,” she said.

The disturbing case has reignited debate over the limits of physical discipline in homes and the urgent need to protect children from abuse.
A social worker at Chitungwiza Central Hospital, Ms Rutendo Chinhoyi, described the incident as deeply distressing and urged caregivers to adopt non-violent approaches when correcting children.

“This is a heartbreaking situation,” she said. “Parents need to understand that discipline should never result in serious injury or lasting trauma. Children are still developing and can make mistakes, but that does not justify harsh punishment. When families face behavioural or emotional challenges, seeking counselling is important to prevent harm.”

She also called on communities to act quickly when abuse is suspected.
“Neighbours and community members play a vital role. Any suspected abuse should be reported immediately to authorities so that children are protected and safe,” she added.
The father of the twins has since appeared before the Chivhu Magistrates Court and was remanded in custody as investigations continue.

Child protection advocates say the case highlights a troubling reality in Zimbabwe, where many abuse cases remain hidden, often occurring within the very homes where children should feel safest.