CHIREDZI- A devastating case of infanticide in Mkwanise has shocked local communities and highlighted issues of economic desperation and mental health. Police have arrested an 18-year-old woman for allegedly stoning her two-year-old male toddler to death near Maranatha paddock in Mkwanise on Tuesday. The incident occurred after the suspect, Maria Zimvumi, failed to secure employment as a domestic worker in nearby Chiredzi.

Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson said Zimvumi initially claimed her child had died from an accidental fall while being carried on her back. Police investigations later revealed evidence of deliberate violence.

“The suspect attempted to mislead investigators about the circumstances of her son’s death,” the ZRP said in a statement released on their official X platform. “Further examination uncovered signs of intentional harm inconsistent with an accidental fall.”

The case echoes a similar tragic incident from 2020 in Chivhu, where 29-year-old Emelda Marazani killed her four children, including a toddler. According to court records, Marazani poisoned and killed her daughters, aged between one and nine years, before attempting to burn down her house.

Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi reported at the time that Marazani had committed the acts following domestic disputes. “She tied up the two older children before attacking them with a knife, then proceeded to kill her younger daughters,” Nyathi said.

During her trial, Marazani revealed that her actions were triggered by learning her husband’s mistress was pregnant with a male child, while she had only borne daughters. She later sought forgiveness from the court, her family, and her husband.

Mental health experts stress the importance of recognizing signs of severe emotional distress in new mothers and those facing economic hardship. Local advocacy groups have called for increased access to mental health services and employment support for young parents.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police continue to investigate the current case, including potential contributing factors such as mental health issues or economic pressures that may have influenced Zimvumi’s actions.