Woman Accused Of “Raping” 16-Year-Old Boy Pleads Not Guilty

A United States-based woman, Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge, who is facing a charge of aggravated indecent assault, has pleaded not guilty.

Appearing before regional magistrate Noel Mupeiwa, Makedenge, who is represented by lawyer Lenon Rwizi, denied any involvement in the alleged offence as outlined by the State.

She told the court that on August 2, 2025, at around 11 am, she was at the complainant’s home when the 16-year-old approached her complaining of severe flu symptoms and a headache. Said Rwizi:

“The complainant asked if the accused had any medication to ease his condition.

“The accused prepared a ginger drink and said she would look for paracetamol tablets.”

Rwizi told the court that Makedenge rejected the complainant’s alleged sexual advances and reprimanded him.

Makedenge claims the complainant made a false report because he feared she would tell her boyfriend, who is closely related to him.

She also alleged that her boyfriend’s family wanted to frame her, as they had never accepted her as a potential wife.

The public gallery was cleared to allow the underage complainant to give evidence.

The State says that on 2 August 2025, Makedenge asked the complainant for a broom at his home. After he handed it to her, he went to his spare bedroom, where the alleged incident took place.

According to the prosecution, Makedenge forced the complainant into sexual activity without his consent.

She allegedly twisted his arm until he became powerless, tied both his hands with an electric cable, and pushed him onto the bed before forcibly taking off his trousers. She then forcibly engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse with the boy without his consent.

Makedenge is also said to have warned him not to tell anyone, promising to take him to the United States, where she works.

The complainant later went to Mbare and reported the matter to his sister, who informed their mother. The case was reported to Mbare Police Station, resulting in Makedenge’s arrest.

A medical examination was conducted, and a medical affidavit will be presented as evidence in court.

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