Tafadzwa Chidawa and his companion have been arrested and brought before the Harare Magistrates Court for allegedly operating an illegal child rehabilitation camp in New Marlborough, Harare. Tafadzwa Chidawa (36) and Clara Manyepera (38) are facing charges related to running an unregistered private voluntary organization and impersonating child protection officers.
According to the State, Chidawa and Manyepera established and operated the “Matrix Disciplinary and Training Camp” without the required registration and licensing under the Private Voluntary Organizations Act. Authorities claim the camp, located at Number 2165 Tokwane Close, was designed to “rehabilitate” children with delinquency issues. Reports indicate that at least two youths were admitted to the camp starting from December 6, 2023.
Further allegations suggest that during the camp’s operation, the pair misrepresented themselves as child protection officers. They reportedly conducted counseling and behavioral correction services legally reserved for qualified professionals. These services included supervising and correcting delinquent behaviors, as well as providing counseling and support.
Law enforcement officials claim to have video evidence of Chidawa and Manyepera conducting training sessions at the camp. Their unlawful activities are said to have violated the Children’s Act.
The accused appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court for their initial remand, and the investigation is ongoing. They were granted bail of US$300 each and are set to return to court on April 20.
The National Prosecuting Authority has reiterated its commitment to upholding child protection laws, emphasizing that “crime does not pay.”
