16‑year‑old girl faints during rape ordeal by 43‑year‑old man…after being invited to his home for a birthday party for one of his children

A 16‑year‑old girl was raped by a 43‑year‑old man after being invited to his home for a birthday party for one of his children.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident occurred while the victim’s parents were away. She had attended the celebration at the offender’s residence.

During the assault, the girl lost consciousness. She only regained awareness the following day, after being revived by the offender’s son. The NPA said:

“The Harare Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a 43-year-old man to an effective 15-year term of imprisonment after convicting him of raping a 16-year-old girl.

“Sometime in January 2023, the offender invited the victim to his home for a birthday party for one of his children.

“On that day, the victim’s parents were away, and she attended the celebration.

“During the party, the victim went into the offender’s bedroom to collect a drink from the fridge, which had been moved there.

“As she was leaving the room, the offender blocked her path and raped her. The victim lost consciousness and was only revived the following day by the offender’s son.

“The matter came to light on the 27th of July 2025, when the victim, while watching a film with a storyline similar to her ordeal, disclosed the incident to her uncle.

“A police report was subsequently made, leading to the offender’s arrest.”