Charity Nkomo
Gender Affairs and Community Reporter
A disturbing rise in suspected satanic and ritualistic practices across Zimbabwe is sending shockwaves through communities, with a growing pattern pointing to children being the main targets.
The latest case, involving two female teachers from Mbuya Nehanda Primary School in Bikita, has horrified parents and raised urgent questions about the safety of minors — both in schools and in public spaces.
According to court reports, Beatrice Gotsani (35) and Charity Matiza (42), both teachers at the school’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) center, allegedly used syringes to draw blood from 19 young pupils. The matter only came to light after the children reported it to a school employee, Francis Matutu.
The two educators are facing assault charges and are expected to appear in court.
This alarming incident comes barely a month after another shocking event in Gokwe, where Mavis Sibanda (33), a vendor, forcibly drained blood from a 10-year-old girl’s finger using a needle in broad daylight.
Mavis Sibanda, who reportedly used the blood sample on an HIV test kit, was sentenced to two years in jail by Magistrate Honest Musiiwa after pleading guilty to assault.
These cases have sparked fears that satanic rituals and dark spiritual practices are becoming more prevalent in Zimbabwe, with vulnerable children being targeted.
The fact that such acts are happening inside schools — places assumed to be safe havens for children — has deeply unsettled parents and communities.
“We send our children to school thinking they are in safe hands. But now, teachers — people we trust — are the ones drawing their blood?” said Mrs Ndlovu, a concerned resident
Parents are now demanding answers and accountability, particularly regarding the intentions behind the blood collection. While the two teachers face legal action, the larger question remains: Was this part of a ritual? Who is behind it?
The Gokwe case serves as a chilling reminder that children are also being taken advantage of in public areas.
The 10-year-old girl who was attacked had simply been walking through the market when she was lured by Sibanda. It took the intervention of two good Samaritans and her father to bring the offender to justice.
As fear and confusion grip communities, there are increasing calls for urgent action and vigilance.
“Whether it’s for rituals, satanic acts, or misguided beliefs, it must stop. The community must rise up, churches must speak out, and schools must be monitored closely.”said Mr Moyo
While authorities have made arrests in both cases, the bigger picture remains grim. The question on many people’s minds is: Are these just isolated acts of madness, or signs of something more coordinated and sinister?
The recent spate of ritual-like assaults on children is becoming a national concern, not just a local one. With incidents happening in both urban and rural areas, the Zimbabwean public is left grappling with fear, suspicion, and a growing sense of helplessness.
Zim GBC News 2025