Widespread condemnation has followed the shocking revelation of physical and mental abuse inflicted on an 11-year-old girl by her foster mother in Pfutsero Town, with two women’s organisations demanding strict legal action.
In a strongly worded statement, the Chakhesang Mothers’ Association (CMA) said it was writing “with profound shame” and “outrageously condemn[ed] in the strongest term the atrocious inhumane act committed to an eleven-year child by her Foster mother, Mrs Thukungolu Hesu, W/o Mr Vezovoyi Hesu, a resident of Rukizu Colony, Pfutsero Town.”
The CMA alleged that the foster mother “in her habitual act used to abuse and torture the child physically and mentally,” and warned her of “further consequences if she ever shared with others about the abuse, which was kept in the dark for long.”
The extent of the abuse came to light only on the evening of 28th June 2025, when the girl was taken to a pharmacy for treatment of an unrelated illness. “To their surprise and shock, bruises and injuries were noticed on her body, which was a clear indication of severe physical assault,” the CMA stated.
Calling the abuse “unthinkable and shocking,” the association said, “This evil act of a mother has totally destroyed the free spirited and healthy growth of the child and has put all mothers to shame and heartbroken. Mothers are to care and love even when everyone cease to care and love.”
The CMA demanded that “the culprit be booked at the earliest by the enforcement agencies” and called for “the severest punishment under the law… without leniency or delay.” It added that it “will not shy away from violence against children until justice is met,” and pledged to keep track of the progress of the case.
The statement was jointly signed by Zhonuletu Tunyi, President, and Kezevinuo Krome, General Secretary of CMA.
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Echoing the condemnation, the Chokri Area Mother’s Association in a separate statement said it “vehemently condemned the horrific violence and inhumane behaviour perpetrated by Thukungolu, a resident of Rukizu Village, against her minor foster child.”
The organisation said, “Such abuse is an outright violation of the child’s fundamental right to dignity and life. At an age where a child need most care, love and protection from guardians and parents, the brutal abuse on the minor is unacceptable and we expressed outrage at this atrocious conduct of Thukungolu.”
It appealed to the authorities to take “swift and appropriate action… and ensure justice be served to prevent such heinous acts from recurring.”
The statement was signed by Nuvotalu Kezo, President, Chokri Area Mother’s Association.