ZRP Should Open the Rape Reporting Platform to All, Not Only Magaya’s Victims
Zimbabwe has a lot of Magayas and we need to protect our girls, mothers and even grandmothers. It is good news that the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is aggressively pursuing the rape case of Walter Magaya and has opened avenues where Zimbabweans can report their cases. I would like to inform the ZRP that rape and sexual abuse are so prevalent in Zimbabwe and kindly request that they open this platform for the general public. This is a great opportunity to protect our sisters, mothers and even grandmothers from sexual predators who target them.
For too long, those in positions of power and authority have taken advantage of a system that does not adequately protect our girls and women. The silence, fear and lack of accountability have allowed sexual predators to act with impunity, destroying lives and families while the victims suffer in silence. It is time to change that.
The ZRP must be commended for taking decisive action in pursuing the rape, assault and fraud allegations against Walter Magaya, leader of PHD Ministries after so many years.
In a statement issued on 8 November 2025, the ZRP announced the establishment of several dedicated reporting platforms including mobile and WhatsApp hotlines for victims to freely report their cases, whether they are in Zimbabwe or abroad. This development is a powerful step toward justice and accountability.
It is encouraging to see the police respond proactively to such serious allegations. This initiative could mark the beginning of a new era in the fight against sexual violence, one where victims are no longer silenced by fear, shame or intimidation.
As a concerned Zimbabwean, I wish to urge the ZRP to expand this platform beyond this single case to allow all survivors of rape and sexual abuse to come forward and seek justice. Sexual violence remains widespread across Zimbabwe, affecting countless women and girls and in some cases even men, who often have nowhere to turn for help.
The ZRP is also encouraged to embrace Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and social media platforms to make it easier for victims to report abuse, even anonymously. Platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and dedicated mobile apps could help reach younger victims and those in remote areas, ensuring that every cry for help is heard and acted upon swiftly.
What the ZRP has done should inspire the creation of a Zimbabwean version of the #MeToo movement, where victims can safely and confidently share their experiences and hold perpetrators accountable. Such a movement would help dismantle the culture of silence that has for too long protected abusers and punished victims.
This is an opportunity to protect our sisters, mothers and grandmothers from sexual predators who exploit power and vulnerability. The police must continue to strengthen public trust by ensuring that all reports are handled with confidentiality, empathy and fairness.
The ZRP’s current effort is not only about one case, it is about building a safer Zimbabwe for everyone. Let this moment spark a lasting national campaign where survivors are believed, supported and empowered to speak out.
Wherever you are, Betty Makoni, this moment presents a great opportunity to revisit and revive the cases you once fought for.
