Women’s Groups Demand Swift Justice For 13-Year-Old Rape Survivor At Rezende Parkade

Women’s organisations have criticised the perceived slow pace at which police are investigating the alleged rape of a 13-year-old Grade 7 girl in a parked commuter minibus (kombi) at Rezende Parkade rank, one of Harare’s busiest transport hubs.

According to Harare police, the girl had travelled into town on 5 August 2025 to collect money from a relative.

On her way home, she attempted to board a kombi at Rezende rank, where she was reportedly harassed by touts.

One man, posing as a helpful bystander, allegedly led her to a parked white Toyota Hiace, locked the doors, and raped her.

On Friday, members of the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ) gathered at a Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Outreach Activity at Rezende Parkade rank.

The event, attended by women of all ages, aimed to show solidarity with the victim and other women and girls who have suffered abuse at the hands of rowdy touts.

In an interview with HealthTimes, WCoZ Board Secretary and lawyer Irene Sithole said that delays in resolving the case were making it increasingly difficult to deliver justice. Said Sithole:

“So, we are not happy about the pace of this investigation. We wish it could be expedited because this involves a young child.

“Over time, she may forget key details. When presenting evidence in court, precision is crucial.

“The longer the delay, the more difficult it is for her to recall events accurately, which jeopardises the case.

“We hope the matter will be accelerated so justice can prevail and the perpetrator brought to book.”

She noted that, since the alleged assault took place in a public area, it is reasonable to expect that other commuter omnibus touts might be able to help identify the perpetrator.

Loveness Rukuni, Executive Director of the Women’s Action Group (WAG), added that ranks and bus terminals must be safe spaces for all commuters. Said Rukuni:

“We know that touts often protect each other and know who is responsible. We urge law enforcement to act swiftly. It is unacceptable that this girl was raped at this rank.”

Caroline Mutimbanyoka, Director of Sprout Women Empowerment Trust, called for the removal of touts from the streets. She said:

“Our cities must be free from violence. A 13-year-old child should not be raped in public, and yet no arrests have been made.

“This shows the touts are not sincere. If necessary, all touts should be removed from ranks to make public transport safe.”

Touts frequently entice young girls into sexual relationships using fast food, money, clothing, and other inducements.

The victims are primarily pupils in primary and secondary schools, as well as college and university students.