A traditional beer ceremony in Mashava ended in tragedy after two children died and 14 other people, including seven adults and four children, were left critically ill from suspected food poisoning, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed.
Police said the incident occurred on 27 October 2025 during a traditional ritual gathering where families reportedly ate sadza and drank mahewu. Shortly after the meal, several attendees began experiencing severe stomach pains.
Tragically, two minors, aged three and seven, succumbed to the illness.
According to ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, four children and seven adults are currently in critical condition at Masvingo General Hospital, while three others are receiving treatment at Mashava Clinic.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the poisoning.
“More details will be released in due course,” said Commissioner Nyathi. - Zimbo LIVE MasvingoIpapa hazvishamise akaisa poison yacho airwira a small piece of land or kuti nhingi afe ndisare ndichigara naadzimai vake!
