A nine-year-old schoolgirl crumbled down and died earlier this week while running away from Nyau dancers (Zvigure).
The tragic incident occurred on Monday at Eastwise Primary School’s gate along Sinini Drive in Eastview Phase 1, Mabvuku.
Police Confirm As Schoolgirl Loses Life At The Hands Of Zvigure
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the occurrence:
“The ZRP confirms a sad incident in which a 9-year-old girl died after falling to the ground while running away from masquerades (Zvigure) at a school located along Sinini Drive, Eastview Phase1, Mabvuku, Harare on 15 May 2023. Investigations are in progress.”
Harare provincial deputy police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Webster Dzvova, corroborated this, explaining what transpired:
“Police are investigating the death of a minor child believed to have died during a stampede at a school gate in Eastwise. Circumstances were that the now deceased was a Grade 3 pupil at Eastwise Primary School.
“On May 15, at around 1630 hours, the now deceased was waiting for transport at Eastwise Primary School gate after she had finished school. Masquerades (zvigure) holding sjamboks suddenly appeared, and a horde of school children, including the deceased, ran to a nearby woman selling her wares.
“The deceased fell down, and when the chaos cooled down, efforts to resuscitate the child proved fruitless. The child was ferried to Pacific Hospital, where she was confirmed dead on arrival.”
H-Metro reported that Makanaka Reppoh was staying with her grandmother.
Anger Over Zvigure:
Zimbabweans on social media were saddened, while some were angered by the unfortunate incident that claimed the life of 9-year-old Makanaka:
Shepherd:
“I hope the family sues the living crap out of them.”
Ndabandi:
“Zvigure zvakajaidzwa.”
Spencer:
“No comment, l am at a loss for words. RIP 9-year-old girl.”
Onismo:
“Why do we have zvigure in the first place, chii icho chiya?”
Glenda:
“Ndezvemushonga ndovaurayisa mwana iyeye nxiii.”
Eva:
“It’s a sad situation, my condolences to the family. I don’t, however, think that banning these spiritual practices is the answer. It is possible to study the situation and come up with viable solutions.”
