Tension is rising in New Marimba, Mufakose, after a local woman accused of facilitating same-sex meetings among men went into hiding.
The woman, 42-year-old Annie Chiwanza, is wanted by Mufakose police for allegedly running an online group where young men were introduced to older men. Chiwanza, who is employed by Population Solutions for Health, is believed to have provided condoms and lubricants to group members.
The case was triggered by a father who discovered messages on his 23 year old son’s phone that suggested meetings had been arranged through the platform. He reported the matter to the police, sparking an ongoing investigation.
Officers say attempts to track down Chiwanza at her home have so far failed. “We have been to her known address several times, but she has not been located. We are urging anyone with information to assist,” a police spokesperson said.
The situation has unsettled some parents in the area, many of whom are now calling for closer monitoring of their children’s online activities. “We never thought something like this could be happening so close to us. It’s worrying as a parent,” said one New Marimba resident.
Zimbabwean law criminalises same-sex activity under Section 73 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. Convictions can result in lengthy prison terms. Last year, a man also linked to Population Solutions for Health was sentenced to 19 years in prison after being convicted of attempting to lure another man.
The case also comes amid changing international dynamics. The United States recently announced that certain USAID-funded programmes connected to LGBT initiatives would be discontinued, a move some observers say could reduce the reach of similar networks in Zimbabwe.
As the search for Chiwanza continues, community leaders are urging vigilance. “The safety of young people must come first. Parents, schools, and churches all have a role to play in protecting them,” said a local pastor.
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and have reassured the public that protecting vulnerable youth remains a priority.
The young man defended himself by telling this publiction that he is old enough to make his own decisions because he is an adult. “I am above 18 years old and my father shoul have respected my privacy. There is nothing on my device that proves that I am involved in homosexuality, it is just a health group, so I do not understand why this lady has to be arrested unless if there is a different motive behind the accusation.”
Chiwanza could not be reached by this publication.
