Two Children Die, 11 Others Critically Ill After Drinking Mahewu At A Traditional Ceremony In Masvingo

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Two children have tragically died, and 14 others are in critical condition following a traditional ritual ceremony in Mashava, Masvingo, on 27 October 2025. According to a police press statement, the families had eaten sadza and drank mahewu during the gathering before suddenly falling ill.

Tragedy In Mashava

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident in a press statement dated 28 October 2025. He said:

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating a sad incident where two children died while 14 others, who include seven adults and four children, are critically ill after attending a traditional beer ceremony in Mashava area, Masvingo on 27th October 2025.”

The children who died were aged three and seven. The press statement noted that stomach pains developed soon after eating, leading to the fatalities.

Victims In Critical Condition

Commissioner Nyathi went on to say:

“Four children and seven adults are currently in critical condition at Masvingo General Hospital while three others are receiving treatment at Mashava Clinic.”

He added that investigations are ongoing and more details will be released in due course.

What Is Food Poisoning?

The ZRP has described the incident as “food poisoning.” Food poisoning happens when people eat or drink something that has become unsafe, often because it contains germs such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins. It is important to note that food poisoning is usually not deliberate. In most cases, it occurs by accident — for example, when food is stored incorrectly, prepared in unclean conditions, or exposed to contaminated water.

Typical symptoms include stomach pains, vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening, especially for young children and the elderly.