Family Demands US$150,000 From Harare Council After Daughter Drowns In Sewage-Filled Pit In Budiriro

A family from Budiriro is demanding US$150,000 from the City of Harare after their 17-year-old daughter drowned in a sewage-filled pit left open for months in the residential area.

Talita Munda died in the five-metre excavation, which was allegedly dug by council workers and then abandoned without fencing or warning signs.

Her father, Itai Munda, has issued a 14-day ultimatum through his lawyers, threatening to sue if the city fails to pay.

Three municipal workers — Moses Dicko, Tinei Chihwai and Thomas Rwakatiwana — have already been arrested and charged with culpable homicide over the deaths of two other people in the same pit.

The excavation had reportedly been left unattended for months, filling with water and sewage until it became a death trap.

The tragedy came to light on 7 June when a 19-year-old man fell in. Rescuers searching the pit later recovered the bodies of Talita and a second victim, 34-year-old Vimbainashe Chihota.

A magistrate denied the three accused bail, citing “serious negligence” that led to the loss of innocent lives.

Munda’s lawyers, Maseko Law Chambers, said the city failed to secure, fence off or signpost the pit, and described the incident as “entirely preventable”.

The family is claiming damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and for the violation of Talita’s right to life.

The City of Harare is yet to respond to the family’s demand.

More: NewsDay