Vaidah Nzanga, a 20-year old Harare maid was convicted of negligently causing the death of a toddler after she left a bucket of hot water unattended. Harare magistrate Hosiah Mujaya sentenced Nzanga to five years in prison although two years were suspended on condition of good behaviour.
Nzanga allegedly left the bucket unattended when she went to answer the door. Unfortunately, the toddler hit the bucket while running and the hot water spilled over his body causing severe burns. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he died two days later.
In passing sentence Magistrate Mujaya said:
The degree of negligence is high and sentencing you to a non-custodial term will set a wrong precedent, as the minor’s life was lost in this gross negligence
More: Newsday
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