Harare woman with three husbands sues one for neglect

A Harare woman brought her husband to civil court over money problems and household duties. Sekai Makanya lives in Warren Park and has three husbands. She filed a case against Tapera Mapfumo for not supporting their family. The couple shares one child together. Makanya says Mapfumo refuses to pay school fees or help with expenses.

Makanya told Magistrate Johanna Mukwesha that her husband becomes violent during arguments about money. She tried talking to his family members for help. The mediation efforts failed to solve their problems. Makanya says Mapfumo visits her workplace and calls her a thief. He tells her coworkers that stolen items are at his house.

The woman explained that Mapfumo agreed to her marriage arrangement with multiple men. She believes he must act like a responsible father to their child. Makanya cannot ask her other husbands to care for Mapfumo's child. She wants the court to force him to meet his duties. The situation has created stress for her and their child.

Mapfumo denied all the claims against him. He said he takes care of his child without anyone helping him. The man argued that his wife should not expect everything from him since she has other husbands. He claimed Makanya attacked him in public and threw his belongings outside. Both parties agreed to try counseling to fix their relationship.