Zim GBC News | Gender and Community
MASVINGO – A traditional ceremony in Mashava turned tragic on Monday, 27 October 2025, after two children died and 14 others fell critically ill from suspected food poisoning after consuming sadza and mahewu.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident, which has left the community in mourning. The two deceased children were aged three and seven.
In a press statement dated 28 October, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said,
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating a sad incident where two children died while 14 others, who include seven adults and four children, are critically ill after attending a traditional beer ceremony in Mashava area, Masvingo.”
According to police reports, the victims developed severe stomach pains shortly after eating the food and drinking the traditional beverage at the gathering.
Commissioner Nyathi provided an update on the condition of the other victims, stating,
“Four children and seven adults are currently in critical condition at Masvingo General Hospital while three others are receiving treatment at Mashava Clinic.”
He added that investigations are ongoing and further details will be released in due course.
The police have preliminarily classified the case as food poisoning, which occurs when contaminated food or drink is consumed. Such incidents are often accidental, resulting from improperly stored or prepared food, or the use of contaminated water.
The condition can be life-threatening, especially for young children, causing symptoms like stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea, and severe dehydration.
The community and authorities are awaiting the outcome of the investigation to determine the exact cause of the contamination.
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