By Shaffie A Mtambo
A shocking case of child exploitation has come to light in Lilongwe, Malawi, where a 44-year-old man, Hastings Dumba, has been arrested for allegedly having sexual intercourse with a 16-year-old standard six girl.
The suspect, a panel beater by profession, was apprehended on January 4, 2025, by community policing members at Njewa area. At the time of his arrest, Dumba was accompanied by the minor, and the two were searching for a house to rent.
According to reports, Dumba had proposed to the girl at Nsaru Trading Centre in November last year, promising to take her to town on the same day if she accepted his marriage proposal. The girl, who was born on December 2, 2008, had been living with Dumba as his “wife” for two months, without the knowledge or consent of her parents.
During interrogation, Dumba admitted to having a sexual relationship with the minor but shifted the blame to the victim, claiming that he couldn’t resist her advances. However, this excuse rings hollow, considering the significant age gap and power imbalance between the two.
The victim has since undergone a medical examination at the One Stop Centre at Kamuzu Central Hospital. Dumba, who hails from Thapaniwa Village, Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District, will soon appear in court to face charges of Having Sexual Intercourse with a Child.
This disturbing case highlights the need for increased vigilance and protection of minors from predators who seek to exploit and harm them.
