A Harare man has been ordered by the Mbare Magistrates’ Court to pay US$150 per month for the upkeep of his two minor children following a maintenance application lodged by his estranged partner.
The ruling was handed down yesterday by Magistrate Sharon Mashavira, who found that the father, identified as Tendai Moyo (34), had a legal and moral duty to provide for his children despite his separation from their mother, Ruth Chikowore (29).
Chikowore told the court that Moyo had stopped providing financial support for the children, aged 7 and 4, claiming that he was struggling to find consistent employment. She said she was now solely responsible for school fees, food, clothing, and medical expenses.
“He has neglected his responsibilities for almost a year now. I’m struggling to keep up with rent and the children’s needs. All I am asking for is fair support so that our children can live decently,” said Chikowore during her testimony.
In his defence, Moyo argued that he was unemployed and could not afford the amount requested. He told the court that he occasionally worked as a commuter omnibus conductor and earned irregular income.
“I am not formally employed, Your Worship. I only make money when I get part-time work. I can only manage US$60 per month,”Moyo said
However, Magistrate Mashavira dismissed Moyo’s argument, stating that every parent must contribute reasonably to the welfare of their children regardless of their employment situation.
“The responsibility to maintain one’s children is not optional. It is a legal duty that must be fulfilled according to one’s capacity and in the best interest of the minors,” ruled Mashavira
The court ordered Moyo to pay US$150 per month, starting November 1, through the Clerk of Court at Mbare Magistrates’ Court. He was also instructed to contribute half of the children’s school fees and medical costs.
Outside the courtroom, Chikowore expressed relief at the ruling, saying it would help her manage the children’s welfare.
“I am happy justice has been served. I just want my children to be cared for properly,” she said.
Maintenance disputes are among the most common cases brought before Zimbabwean magistrates’ courts, with many custodial parents citing financial neglect and rising living costs as major challenges.
